About ILL

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My name is Stephen Edwards, better known as ILL, and I am an award-winning cinematographer, internationally published photographer, the MindSex moderator and curator, on-air personality, entrepreneur, and entertainer.

"As an artist, I understand the importance of conveying the image of who you are. So, I invite you to look through my frozen moments."

Young brains see beauty in everything, and mine did as well, but as I grew older, the promise of capturing and enhancing the beauty of the world around me piqued my interest, and photography caught my scrutiny. I enjoy observing frozen moments in time and capturing the very essence of beauty in literally everything. It wouldn't be wrong if I said, "I live, eat, and breathe photography." Every time I pick up my camera, I strive to capture the unique beauty of the world around me and the emotion of the people I photograph. 

A photography career has allowed me to channel my intellect, creativity, and versatility and to share my perspective of the world around me with people who matter to me. As a photographer, my creative process is simply looking at the world around me and responding to it by capturing details that aren't evident to everyone. With a background in the media industry and a sharp creative instinct, I intend to combine my artistic skills and photography knowledge to capture moments and memories that tell a story that lives with my clients and me forever.

In a decorated photography career expanding well over twenty-five years, I have accumulated comprehensive knowledge and expertise in different types of photography with an elevated level of technical and commercial awareness. I have received numerous accolades and recognitions for my services to photography, like photographs published in newspapers and magazine covers. I also had the privilege of working as the director of photography on a film called Murder at the Hands, now available on Amazon Prime. I host a photography-based relationship talk show, "Portraits," and co-host a talk show, "The Air it Out Show." My journey in photography has led me down many different paths over the years, portrait photography, wedding photography, headshots, photoshoots, and baby portraits; but nothing gives me the pleasure that lifestyle photography does. It's something about throwing on my jams and building a mini-set for photo session.

My videography style has proven to be highly influential. It is distinguished by my atmospheric, ambient concepts and reflective approach, which often explores relationships at an intimate and universal level. With a fantastic sense of pragmatism and an innovative spirit, I always intend to establish a genuine connection with my audience and come up with ideas that emanate a rare burst of creativity. I believe in creating videos that have the power to inspire and are a beacon of hope for the lost and broken.

I aspire to be a movie director and filmmaker who focuses on interpersonal relationships, understanding the human experience, mental health awareness, overcoming trauma, and personal development. I want to create stories that highlight human relationships' complexities, explore how people grow and heal, and provide a space for people to reflect and learn. I believe art can be a powerful tool to spark dialogue, reach people on a deeper level, and help them process difficult emotions. I dream of bringing meaningful stories to life that will connect with audiences, create positive change, and inspire personal growth. Majorly focusing on the foundations of love to help audiences understand what it means to receive and, more importantly, give love.

I have organized and moderated a support group, MindSex, for over seven years. MindSex is an online platform dedicated to having open conversations about various topics. It is a safe space where people can connect and share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment or criticism. The topics discussed range from politics and relationships to sex and identity. It is a place to learn and explore, challenge preconceived notions, and have honest and meaningful conversations. With MindSex, my main objective is to encourage people to think critically and engage with the world around us. It is a space for the curious, the brave, and the bold, providing a valuable opportunity for self-expression and growth.

When I am not working, I enjoy playing pool and chess to challenge myself mentally and physically. I am a family man and love spending time with my family; they are at the core of everything I do. I'm a reader at heart, and I love to read anything and everything I can get my hands on. Lately, I've been focusing on self-help books to help me become a better version of myself and help others heal from trauma. I'm passionate about using knowledge I accumulate to make a difference in the world, and reading helps me to do that.