Skip to main content

Chantel King

Studio PI photographer

 

We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the working day: so what was on the menu this morning?

This will sound super fancy but I had a bagel with salmon and cream cheese with a few slices of avocado on the side. It’s definitely not like this every morning.

Sum up what you do at Studio PI in the shortest sentence possible.

I am a photographer

Lay a bit of context on that?

Studio Pi represent me

What attracted you to the role in the first place?

Their ethos – they’re all about representing the underrepresented, Studio PI saw a huge hole in the industry and did something about it. So many amazing creatives are not always given an equal chance and have to work harder, so it’s great that Sachini Imbuldeniya (Studio PI founder) recognised this and did something about it. I feel very proud to be a part of this agency, I get to help pioneer change.

What’s the most interesting/challenging part of your job?

Finding news ways to be creative. You can always take inspiration, which is important, but the key is making it yours.

What are the three most important things on your working agenda today?

– Deliver images to a client
– Prepare for a shoot that I’m doing at the weekend
– Keep up with my Instagram

Last book, film, binge watch and sounds you consumed?

LAST BOOK – Girl, Woman, Other – Bernadine Evaristo
FILM – Judas and the Black Messiah
BINGE WATCH – Behind Her Eyes
SOUNDS – Gwen Stefani

Who is your role model? And why?

My sisters. They are my rock. We have such an amazing bond and I know they will always be there for me. Their strength to continue is incredible and they provide so much love and support, I know I’m never alone. Also, we do the most synchronized crazy dance routines when we’re together.

What is your most treasured possession?

I should probably say my camera, but actually, it’s these giraffe handled salad spoons a friend of mine gave me as a Christmas present from her travels in Egypt. She sadly passed away and every time I use them, they remind me of her – wonderfully weird and wacky.

Who would play you in the film of your life?

Lupita Nyong’o

Last holiday destination? And why?

Cuba, so much history, I love how literally everything stands still in time, it’s like entering a time warp.

You’ve won ten million on the Lottery – what do you do?

I would buy a beautiful home in Hampstead, then a 2nd home somewhere hot on the beach. Then, of course, I would give some to my family and to a charity to help feed families in need. I was one of those families when I was growing up.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Write down your list of achievements, create a board and stick them up around your working space. When you start to lose your motivation look at your achievement board and read them out loud. It will give you that oomph to keep ongoing.

What one bit of advice would you give someone wanting to do your job?

Don’t give up, what is the worst that could happen? If they say no, that’s okay, you should not let that stop you. Try harder and you will surprise yourself!

Tell us something not many people know about you…?

I was on a game show on Channel 4 called ‘Beat The Nation’. I didn’t win but it was super fun.

Who would be your three Fantasy Dinner Party guests? And why?

Maya Angelou: She is just poetic and her strength is incredible. I admire everything she has done for the black community.

Marilyn Monroe: She was a woman in a vastly male-dominated era who had to change herself to fit in. I would like to know more about the true Marilyn.

David Bowie: He is just incredible. David Bowie was all about not conforming to stereotypes. He remained true to himself and gave others the strength and courage they probably didn’t think they had.