The Shenyeng Shottah Leslie Alvarez talks chemistry, trust, finding purpose with Shenseea, and her belief in the singer’s Super Bowl dreams
Leslie Alvarez, Shenyeng Shootah
Being a personal shooter for an international superstar is no simple task. Among the few trusted members of Shenseea’s loyal crew is Leslie Alvarez, the talented photographer who has become her dedicated visual storyteller. Since stepping into the role, Alvarez has experienced significant personal growth, building confidence and refining her craft.
In an interview with Kaboom Magazine, Alvarez, dubbed "Shenyeng Shottah", delves into their relationship, creative chemistry, and her evolution as a photographer.
“I’ve always wanted to be an artist’s personal photographer and fully commit to them, but I hadn’t found the one who I truly wanted to lock in with until I discovered Shen, and actually, I approached her,” she revealed. “No artist I’ve ever worked with can match her work ethic, and that’s how I realized she was the one I wanted to stick with. I really connect with her music, and the vibes around her are always positive and uplifting. Slowly but surely, I worked my way into being her personal shooter.”
"The word 'superstar' is not big enough to refer to her. This girl is a legend". (Photo: Leslie Alvarez)
Discussing their relationship and its impact on her personal growth, Alvarez reflected on their dynamic. "We have a very good and genuine artist-and-photographer relationship. I really enjoy being part of her team, and we have great times working together. I laugh a lot and enjoy myself when I’m with her," the Miami-based photographer shared. "She also challenges me and pushes me to be better every time, which is something I’m thankful for. She inspires me to be different and stand out."
"A lot of people think working with a strict artist is hard, but for me, it’s a blessing. How else would I grow and expand?! I wouldn’t want it any other way. She’s made me realize that ‘just good’ is not good enough. I want to be the best at what I do—not only for myself but for her."
With Shenseea already an international-caliber artist, Leslie Alvarez reflects on the unique experience of being deeply committed to capturing the essence of a superstar. "It feels amazing, especially because she’s worked so hard to get to the level she is at right now. It makes me not only proud of myself but also reassures me that I’m on the right track. Knowing she believes in me is like my fuel—it keeps me going and motivates me to push harder and never give up," she shared. "One thing I can say that I found my purpose when I started working with Shen."
Filled with praise for the recent Grammy nominee, Leslie Alvarez is confident that the future holds even greater success for the Jamaican superstar. "I am so proud of her that the word 'superstar' is not big enough to refer to her. This girl is a legend and the greatest at what she does. The same way I was sure she was going to win a Grammy I know her future is just so bright, I mean she truly deserves it all," she expressed.
Alvarez further added, "She’s such a pure human being, hard working artist, and before all of that she’s an extraordinary mother, therefore God has so many good things in store for her not only because her outstanding talent but because of the type of person she is. Good people always win at end no matter what so she will only continue to win and shine, not only in her career but at life. I know she’ll make all of her dreams come true starting from selling out arena/stadium shows to performing at the Super Bowl one day. There’s nothing this girl can’t do, it’s just a matter of time."
Capturing an artist in the midst of the chaos requires prioritizing materials in editing, as the Miami-based photographer explained. "I've been doing this for so long that everything just feels natural to me. I try to manage my time the best I can. Especially as a tour photographer, you have to turn in your work by the next morning—sometimes within hours. So, I try not to overshoot to avoid having too many similar photos. Getting to know what type of shots and angles she prefers is key. I focus on that and aim for shots that look as perfect as possible to minimize editing time."
"Knowing she believes in me is like my fuel—it keeps me going and motivates me to push harder and never give up. One thing I can say is that I found my purpose when I started working with Shen."
While working with a star-quality artist, Alvarez also runs her own business, LA Productions. "I honestly love shooting shows, that’s what I try to focus on. Music is my first love, so anything that involves music, LA is there," she shared. "My favorite artist is actually the one I work for, so I’m lucky in that regard," Alvarez affirmed.
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