I’m Mel D. Cole, a globally recognized, self-taught photographer and creative director with over two decades of experience. My work spans a wide range of genres, including photojournalism, music, lifestyle, travel, sports, commercial, and documentary photography.Born and raised in Syracuse, NY, I’ve built a career on capturing raw, authentic stories that resonate. From documenting historic moments like the George Floyd protests and the January 6th Capitol attack to photographing iconic artists such as Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and The Roots, my lens has told stories that evoke emotion and inspire reflection.In addition to music and photojournalism, I’ve collaborated with major brands and organizations such as the World Bank, Pepsi, and Chelsea F.C., and I produce commercial work that connects brands with their audiences in meaningful ways. I’m also the founder of Charcoal Pitch F.C., the first soccer content agency in America dedicated to the Black and multicultural football space.My portfolio includes sports photography, where I’ve captured the essence of athleticism and competition at major events, as well as visual content direction and production for artists and brands like Trey Songz and Major League Soccer.Beyond photography, I’m passionate about sharing my journey and expertise. I’ve spoken at universities, schools, and companies, where I inspire audiences with stories of resilience, creativity, and innovation.As a published author, my books "GREAT: Photographs of Hip Hop by Mel D. Cole 2002 – 2019" and "American Protest: Photographs 2020-2021" reflect my dedication to preserving culture and history through photography. My contributions to the field have been recognized with multiple awards, including Press Photographer of the Year by IPA.I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Cinema and Cultural Studies and African American History from Stony Brook University. Based in New York City, I continue to push the boundaries of photography, telling stories that leave a lasting impact.