11/05/11 02:39 PM Filed in: 
Video Vixens
             
            
              These photos of Daphne Duvernay (don't even try
              finding her on Google) by fotog Marc Baptiste had a
              big impact on me back in the 90s. This one of the
              first times I had ever seen a black women shot with
              the Sports Illustrated aesthetic. Also, Daphne looks
              like she could be your girlfriend, not a "jump off."
              In the beginning with urban modeling, this is how it
              was. Black women were more so idealized and cast in
              the true girl-next-door tradition. As you know, it's
              a completely different story now.
              
              
              Notice that these photos hold up over time and still
              look a lot better than what we are seeing nowadays in
              the urban market. Also noteworthy is the fact that
              Daphne is not sporting a weave. Later on, I had the
              privilege of shooting Daphne's sister, Natalie
              Duvernay. I'll see if I can dig up a photo or two of
              her. The resemlance is surprising.
              
              
              
              
              
              
              
                
              
              
              
              Tags: Daphne Duvernay