Meet Izeyah

We recently connected with Izeyah and have shared our conversation below.

Izeyah, we are so appreciative of you taking the time to open up about the extremely important, albeit personal, topic of mental health. Can you talk to us about your journey and how you were able to overcome the challenges related to mental issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.

Honestly, every day is a new day to take on that challenge, if I’m being honest.
A lot of people who’ve met me, whether for a moment or a lifetime, say the same thing: that I look like I’ve got it all figured out.
Truth be told, I feel far from it.

Through trials and tribulations, both minor and major, what keeps me going is my determination to break the generational curses within my family and honestly, to prove to my childhood self that I would do everything I said I would, and then some.

Depression and anxiety are very real parts of my life, but the biggest factor that gets me through is music.
If I didn’t have music to decorate my time, I honestly don’t think I’d be a fraction of who I am.
Sometimes it helps me find answers to my mental state, and other times I use it as an outlet to let my emotions flow.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a full-time photographer and videographer, but more than that, I’m a storyteller. My work is about capturing stillness in the chaos, emotion in the ordinary, and truth in the moment. Whether it’s joy, grief, or something in between, I want people to feel when they look at my art.

My brand is rooted in purpose over profit. Everyone deserves to be seen, to feel something, and to have their story told with care, regardless of their circumstances. I know what it’s like to grow up with less, and I refuse to let that define the experience I offer others. That’s why I create space for those who are often overlooked.

One of my ongoing projects, “One Story, One Shot,” embodies this. I invite people to share a piece of themselves, a memory, a vent, a truth, and in return, I give them a photo or video. Some stories are joyful, others painful, and many are private. In those cases, the moment is honored, and the footage is kept in the vault, never to be shared.

This is more than a job to me. It’s a responsibility to hold space and offer light, even if just for a moment.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

If I had to name three qualities that define who I am and how I create, they’d be: Adventurous, Determined, and Questioning.

I believe growth lives outside your comfort zone. Some of my best work and strongest connections have come from simply grabbing my camera and wandering, no plan, no pressure. Just curiosity. That spirit of exploration fuels everything I do. Determination is the engine. This field isn’t easy it will test you. But I’ve learned that you get exactly what you put in. If you give nothing, you get nothing. So I show up, even when it’s hard, especially when it’s hard.
And above all, I believe in the power of asking questions. Whether it’s asking someone to share their story or reaching out for an opportunity the worst that can happen is a “no.” And even then, you move on stronger, wiser, and still moving forward. Be your own biggest cheerleader. Try new things. Stay curious. That’s how I live and how I create.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Absolutely! I’m always open to partnering and collaborating!
Collaboration expands my perspective and pushes my creativity in ways I couldn’t reach on my own. Even a brief exchange with another artist can spark something lasting. I’m interested in exploring all forms of art, no matter the scale or medium. Whether it’s a muralist, musician, set designer, or fellow visual storyteller, I want to connect and create with everyone!

Long-term, I’m manifesting collaborations with brands like Nike, following in the footsteps of creatives like Marc Cannon and one day designing my own shoe that tells a story from sole to laces.

If you’re reading this and feel called to create something together, reach out. Let’s build, blend visions, and see where it takes us. You can connect with me directly by email at Koikaiphotography@gmail.com or Instagram @Koi._.kai

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