Carlton Hart
~ Photographer/Model ~
~ A Man of Classic Style at 60 ~
By Rodney Wayne Branche
Copa Style Magazine Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Copa: Where are from?
Carlton: I was born and raised in Baltimore City (Lexington Terrace). That included 3 Step-brothers. I was raised by a wondered Mom and dad (Barbara and Carlton Hart); as well as the Lexington Terrace community that I grew in. In 1990 I came to Northern, VA with my family on a military assignment; where I have lived every since. Copa: What is it about photography you like the most?
Carlton: Photography allows me to capture a moment in time; whether it Fashion, Lifestyle, Street, Wedding, or Portrait photography; it's the same. My favorite style is "Street" photography. I love capturing people and their everyday environment. There's something so real about it. I'm always framing and creating photos in my mind with all things I see daily. YOU CAN SAY I NEVER STOP PHOTOGRAPHING AND CREATING IMAGES. |
Copa: At what time did you discover the thrill of being in front of the camera?
Carlton: This has been more of a recent thing. I've taken Fashion photos of myself twice over the last several years. I knew how I wanted to be photographed and wasn't sure that I could have someone to capture the photos as I vision them; so I did them myself. They turned out great! However, more recently I was encouraged by my girlfriend who's a full-time Actress and Print Model to try Commercial Print Modeling. A Print Model typical is hired (paid) by a client to do some sort of Commercial Photo-shoot. You can say I've been in front of the camera for about 3-4 months now. I've been very fortunate to have been hired for about 5 Print and Commercial jobs during that time. It's been a rewarding experience.
Carlton: This has been more of a recent thing. I've taken Fashion photos of myself twice over the last several years. I knew how I wanted to be photographed and wasn't sure that I could have someone to capture the photos as I vision them; so I did them myself. They turned out great! However, more recently I was encouraged by my girlfriend who's a full-time Actress and Print Model to try Commercial Print Modeling. A Print Model typical is hired (paid) by a client to do some sort of Commercial Photo-shoot. You can say I've been in front of the camera for about 3-4 months now. I've been very fortunate to have been hired for about 5 Print and Commercial jobs during that time. It's been a rewarding experience.
Copa: What are your views about approaching the wonderful age of 60?
Carlton: "LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE" I plan to approach age 60 with the intent to live my BEST LIFE. I plan to be just as adventurous and open minded as I have been prior to 60. Whether it's traveling the world; trying different photographing styles; continuing learning to play musical instruments; taking dance lessons; and more, There's truly no limit.
Carlton: "LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE" I plan to approach age 60 with the intent to live my BEST LIFE. I plan to be just as adventurous and open minded as I have been prior to 60. Whether it's traveling the world; trying different photographing styles; continuing learning to play musical instruments; taking dance lessons; and more, There's truly no limit.
Copa: Do you consider to be a 'Man of Classic Style?' If so, in what way?
Carton: There's a quote that I love; "In a World Full of Trends, I Want to Remain a Classic". I grew up at a time and in a community where fashion was important. The older men in the family and community would give you advice on how to dress; how to walk; and fashion do's and don'ts. I got advice like "Always keep your shoes clean and shiny -- it's one of the first things females look at". I still remember many of the advice and dressing tips.Those elders had Style and Swagger. That's "Classic" to me. I hope that makes sense!!! Copa: How do you feel about being featured on the Cover of Copa Style Magazine for SEPTEMBER 2021?
Carlton: I count it all as blessings. I do my best to live a life of APPRECIATION, not ANTICIPATION. So I'm appreciative of all that comes my way. Copa: What is your personal philosophy on Men's style in general?
Carlton: Style is more then just fashion. Fashion is what you wear. However, Style combines fashion and who you are as a person. It goes beyond the clothes and trends. Style is timeless; Fashion is so often trendy. Copa: Who are your favorite 3 menswear designers of all time?
Carlton: I'm a big fan of Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, and Karl Lagerfeld. Some of my first quality cologne, suits, and shoes were from these 3 designers. |
Copa: What does the future hold for Carlton Hart in his fabulous world of photography, travel, fashion, and style?
Carlton: I plan to enjoy this adventure and life that I've been given. I plan to SMILE and continue to do it all and more. At the same time remaining a "CLASSIC MAN". Maybe I'll be on the cover again at age 70.
Carlton: I plan to enjoy this adventure and life that I've been given. I plan to SMILE and continue to do it all and more. At the same time remaining a "CLASSIC MAN". Maybe I'll be on the cover again at age 70.