The Black Woman’s Journey: Naomi Campbell Covers ESSENCE 50th Anniversary Issue

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — International fashion model, actress and activist Naomi Campbell covers the 50th anniversary of ESSENCE.

The British model make ESSENCE history as her own photographer for the famed publication’s latest issue.

Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Campbell was forced to come up with a quick solve for the absence of a traditional photoshoot set up, she took matters—and the camera—into her own hands. Specifically, she did her own hair, own makeup and own styling before turning the lens on herself to do what would become the first-ever ESSENCE magazine cover shot entirely on an iPhone. It would also mark the first time in the brand’s 50-year history that a cover star was her own photographer.

“It was a very special honor and unusual experience for me to be able to shoot and style my own cover for Essence’ 50th Anniversary Issue,” Campbell says. “While it was a sad reminder for me of all the people in media and production who are not able to work due to the coronavirus, it also brought me hope and encouragement to know that our people and our infrastructures are resilient.”

Head over to ESSENCE to read the cover story.

Photos Credit: Naomi Campbell