Life & Work with Micah Shumake

Today we’d like to introduce you to Micah Shumake. 

Hi Micah, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am Micah Shumake, a Detroit native, east-side raised, and my dream would be to take over the world. I am an expression enthusiast, as well as a dictator of taste. I believe that I exist to create, cultivate, but most importantly, to inspire. I remember growing up being an admirer of the world of glitter, glamor, lights, and cameras, often described as fashion. I really started falling in love with fashion the moment I saw my super chic great auntie’s emerald, Moschino belt. My auntie Joe was fabulous, sophisticated, and well-spoken. I had to be maybe four or five, but I was in awe of the color and yet compelled by the dark, moody green behind the gold hardware on the belt. After that, I began to live and breath fashion. I remember my mom would find holes in clothing in the laundry from me cutting fabric out to use for my Barbie dolls. It was extremely helpful that my parents supported me in every way when it came to expressing myself. They sent me to art camps and programs during the summer where I would learn new techniques and different construction practices. I followed all of Project Runway seasons, stayed up late watching America’s Next Top Model, and played dress-up. Whether it was Clueless, Gossip Girl, Sex in the City, or The Devil Wears Prada, those were worlds I felt most close to. 

Some of my favorite moments in discovering my creative identity was attending schools that required uniforms and being suspended due to not following the proper dress code. However, I felt my uniform remixes were iconic, and certainly a breath of fresh air to my fellow classmates. See, I felt I was immersed in the striking world of fashion as if I could feel creativity running through my veins. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life sometimes provides challenges and disappointments. One of my biggest was having to leave Columbia College in Chicago, where I was majoring in Fashion Business. I was so distracted there, I ended up having to return home. While coming home was needed, it wasn’t an easy transition, and I felt discouraged. At that time, Detroit was still rebuilding. However, everything happens in perfect timing. College for Creative Studies had opened up their Fashion Accessories Design program the year I came home, and my mom encouraged me to apply. Luckily, I got accepted into the program along with a decent scholarship. Although I was excited, it was very difficult to adjust. I would definitely say that anything that you are passionate about will come with some struggle or hardship. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Most importantly, I am a mom to Judah Mercy, my super cool, three-year-old, who loves sneakers and Spiderman. I am a creative director, curator, designer, stylist, and photographer. I also have gotten into modeling with my toddler and making art prints. Typically, I am known for being a moment maker. I am passionate about people and how they feel on the inside, and I try to bring that out when styling and photographing. I understand that style is the first impression you make before you introduce yourself. I always encourage intentionality when it comes to helping someone with their own personal style. I’m also a visual person, so I’m inspired by my surroundings; which works in my favor during photoshoot. My proudest moments are witnessing the transformation that happens whether I am styling a client or taking their picture. I love seeing confidence and courage come forth. The truth is, it takes time to learn to believe in yourself and take a leap outside of your comfort zone. I also think that’s the difference in my role as a moment maker because I’m interested in how my clients feel internally. I think because we are a generation that uses social media often, sometimes we can get lost in the sauce. Meaning, we’re so into what we see more than what we feel. I prioritize what my clients feel first. Yes, the picture looks good, but if you don’t feel good, we are faced with some challenges. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice for anyone trying to pursue their dream is to go for it. I believe in chasing the lion, and that metaphor just means going after your wildest wonder. If you truly believe in yourself, nothing or no one can stand in the way. It takes discipline, dedication, and just pure passion. Know your worth to the world, and that your dream is something that’s in you for a reason. Everyone’s journey is different, so do not compare yourself to others as it will only slow you down. Go after it, and be prepared for challenges and hurdles while having an understanding that challenges make you stronger and elevate your growth. 

Pricing:

• Photography : 1 hour $150 2 hour $250
• Styling : $200 +
• Art Prints : $50+
• Creative Consulting : $100
• Website & Branding : $500+

Contact Info:

• Email: shumakemicah@gmail.com
• Instagram: @micahshumake
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/micah.a.shumake
• Twitter: @shumakemicah

Image Credits
Quatiece Salter
Rob Brown
Shauna Reiman