If there was a Mount Rushmore of hip-hop photographers, Cam Kirk's face would be etched in stone on it. The Atlanta-based lensman has shot photos and directed videos for some of the genre's biggest stars — Future, Migos, Jeezy, 2 Chainz, Travis Scott, Andre 3000 and many, many more.
Besides his photographic exploits, however, he's a powerful believer in the strength of a strong creative community. This belief has led him to host memorable gallery exhibitions like Trap God, a photo show that displayed his photos of Gucci Mane in a converted church, and, seven years ago, to open Cam Kirk Studios, a hub for Atlanta's aspiring creatives that's aided in the creation of more than 30,000 creative projects.
Now, Kirk is set to take that ethos to the next level with the launch of CORE, a photography equipment company. CORE was founded to offer high-quality essentials from travel cases to lens caps, cleaning kits, camera straps and even disposable cameras at a reasonable price, breaking down another of the barriers for entry into what can be an expensive hobby (or profession).
"This line mirrors the unique position of Cam Kirk Studios in the photography world," Kirk says. "A hub for creativity and collaboration that lives outside the traditional."
With Core's first drop touching down today, June 27, here's how he's aiming to do it.
What sparked the idea to start your own photographic accessories line?
The seed for CORE was planted the moment I first picked up a camera in 2012. I've always envisioned launching my own line, somewhat akin to Michael Jordan releasing his first sneaker. The key was timing. Establishing Cam Kirk Studios seven years ago boosted my profile in the photography world and provided the perfect platform and community to bring my visions to life. I saw a need to inject color, culture, and fashion into the photography product space — transforming photographers from behind-the-scenes creatives into the new trendsetters.
Is there a gap in the market that you feel this line fills?
Absolutely! Many photography accessories prioritize function over style, but there’s immense potential to fuse both. CORE is designed to make photographers feel as creative and stylish as the art they produce, filling a significant gap in the market for aesthetically-driven functional gear.
What does Cam Kirk look for from his photography equipment? How does CORE meet those needs?
I keep it simple with my gear, mainly shooting with my trusted Canon R5, but I’ve always sought to express my creativity through my accessories. Whether it's rocking camera straps from fashion brands like BAPE and Off-White™, or my custom sticker-clad Pelican case, I want my equipment to showcase my artistic flair. CORE reflects this ethos with vibrant, fashion-forward designs in essential photography accessories, blending streetwear vibes with practicality. I want our photographers to feel as though they're gearing up with the latest BAPE or Supreme when they are rocking CORE.
Photography can be expensive, either as a hobby or a profession, but CORE products seem to have an element of price-consciousness as well. Was that important to you?
Definitely. CORE is designed with the aspiring photographer in mind —reflecting the younger me. We aim to offer quality products at accessible prices, perfect for those buying their first camera. It’s about ensuring no one is priced out of pursuing their passion.
Cam Kirk Studios boasts a strong community aspect — it’s a place for Atlanta’s creative community to come and cook up. Is this line an extension of that ethos?
CORE is a natural extension of everything I stand for. Cam Kirk Studios has hosted over 30,000 creative projects, and that vibrant community is our heartbeat. This line mirrors the unique position of Cam Kirk Studios in the photography world —a hub for creativity and collaboration that lives outside the traditional.
What’s your biggest tip for aspiring photographers?
Photography is a skill first and an art second. Master the craft, understand your equipment, and the artistry will follow. From using a sturdy camera case to protect your gear to keeping a lens cap on when not in use, taking care of your equipment is as crucial as mastering the shot. Remember, the best artists know their tools as well as they know their creative vision.
The first selection of CORE products is available via the brand's webstore now. Prices range from $10-$85 USD.
Click here to view full gallery at Hypebeast
