Capture This

Jerneisia McGee

2018 Communication Intern

​Photographs speak without words by capturing moments we will never forget. What about the person behind the photograph instead of the people in it? What are their stories? What do we learn when we focus the lens onto them?

Alexus Milons is a photographer from Starkville, MS, who studies her craft at Mississippi State University. Despite starting only a year ago, Milons’ photographs have gained a great deal of attention.

She began taking pictures with her iphone, but after much encouragement, she put more focus into her craft. Milons discovered the depth of her love and passion when she purchased her Cannon T Rebel 6 and decided to take photography seriously. Milons gains inspiration from the different colors in the seasons. She likes to keep her photographic stories natural, unique, and simple. Her goal is to capture a moment, not create one.

As for the future, Milons plans to break glass ceilings through her work by becoming the first African American woman to work for Vogue. It’s a significant goal, given that the first African American to photograph the cover issue of Vogue was for the 2018 September Issue. When asked about her experience as being a woman in a male-dominated field, Milons realizes there is a gap, however a gap can always be filled: “The only way to reach your goals is to just go for them.”

She credits Chauncey Magnum as one of the local photographers that has helped welcome her into the artistic community.

Chauncey Magnum is a Starkville resident, and Mississippi State Alumnus. Magnum started photography as a hobby to explore his creativity and meet new people. He is now a professional fashion and wedding photographer whose main goal is to uplift other photographers in the community.

He allows other artist to use his studio as well as host events, like open photos walks for creators and models, that help artists with their craft.

When asked about women in photography, Magnum stated that he draws a lot of  inspiration from women: “Women bring a different view, there’s a lot a woman can teach you in this field.”

He credits Emily Soto as being one of his main inspirations, because of her ability to capture small details and think outside of the box.

Magnum plans to help Starkville through art. For him, there isn’t a  need to leave the city because there’s still so much to accomplish and to capture.

​A photographer’s work allows us to see the way they view the world. Looking at their photos can take you take you on their own  journey. There’s a story behind each of these storytellers.

Check out more of Milons' work on Instagram.

Visit Magnum's Instagram page or his website to see more work.