“Through the Lens: Empowering Philadelphia’s Youth One Portrait at a Time”

As a creative, mentor, and artist from Philadelphia, Vernon Ray is typically behind the lens.

In 2006, he established the firm Creative Mind Productions after experiencing incarceration in his early twenties, and now employs his photographic talent to support his community.

“It initially started with me sketching,” Ray shared, but as soon as he grasped his first camera, he swiftly gained recognition for showcasing Philadelphia’s nightlife.

This is how he encountered Kyree Terrell.

“There was no one to guide me as a formerly incarcerated individual. I never had a mentor or anyone genuinely teaching me the trade,” Ray remarked.

The pair forged a strong friendship and became business associates. When they aren’t engaging with the community, they’re hard at work in their studio — the venue where “My New Philly” started.

“We produced short videos that narrate the stories of individuals, locations, and experiences in Philadelphia. It was remarkable. It was the forefront of exceptional news,” Ray stated.

Despite the pandemic hindering production, their grassroots studio transformed into a refuge.

Like numerous individuals, Ray has been affected by gun violence within the city. Together with several collaborators, he has developed a series of workshops under the slogan, “Shoot Cameras, Not Guns.”

Currently, Ray is seeking the community’s backing. Earlier this month, after departing from a job, all his equipment was taken from his parked vehicle — valued at approximately $20,000.

“You don’t comprehend the person you are robbing. You don’t recognize all the struggles and challenges, the ‘Nos,'” Ray expressed.

At present, he is borrowing gear to remain afloat and continues to aid the community by offering affordable headshots to entrepreneurs and providing entry-level positions through his 40 for 40 initiative.

Though this is merely a glimpse into Ray’s existence, he conveys that the larger vision has perpetually been his mission.

“We might not be able to assist tens of thousands of individuals in one go, but if we engage that one young individual locked in with us… that’s a victory,” Ray remarked.

If you wish to assist him in acquiring new equipment, check out Vernon’s Instagram profile, @allmoneyshots.