Local photographer Shirley Ly, or Little Phoenix, is capturing (literally) the world one person at a time. Be sure to RSVP to see her photographs at the next Los Angeles Showcase on March 12th! 

How did you first get started as a photographer?
I started out as a musician, performer and model but I wanted to know what it was like to be behind the camera.  I believe a great model should know what goes on behind the camera and a great photographer should possess a deep knowledge about modeling. 

From where do you draw inspiration for your work? 
People that I meet every day give me different vibes.  That inspires me.  And music always gives me inspiration.

How would you describe your work? 
I attempt to live up to my name which is “Little Phoenix," therefore I look for irony in the world and try to capture it ... which is a little ironic in of itself...

What do you love most about what you do? 
The moment where the model and the photographers “click” (no pun intended) and begin to work together as one.  Creating art in a way that nobody has done before.  I also love having so many opportunities to work with celebrities! 

Do you engage in, or draw inspiration from, any other forms of art? 
As I said music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. It often serves as my greatest source of inspiration. I've been told I have a flair for finger painting (thank you Miss Crabtree)!

From start to finish, explain your process; what does a typical art-making day look like for you?
I begin with a concept or theme, then do a casting call.  Next, I scout locations or if working in my studio I get the set prepared with backgrounds, props, and lighting for dramatic effect.  Once I’m ready, I put on some music which matches the mood or theme.  Now the model(s) and I are ready to get to work, finding those great shots.  In the final stage, I take the raw images and do my magic in post-production with Photoshop. 

What camera do you use? 
Nikon D80 

Anything you hope your viewers will take away with them after seeing your photographs? 
I want to share with them what I see; what I capture in my images. 

Are there any specific reoccurring themes or subjects that you deal with most in your work? 
I absolutely adore men in suits, so naturally it has become a big part of my portfolio.  As I mentioned,  I love irony so that is also a running theme throughout much of my work.  

Why showcase at RAW? 
I’m hungry.