Chi Modu trapped people and their essence in their most vulnerable places. Many would argue that the best photos taken are the ones where the subjects don’t even know they’re being shot. It’s in these pictures that there’s no mask being worn for the camera, no poses and no attentive mindset- there’s a defenseless nature that’s very organic being captured.

Chi Modu and Pintrill collaborated and produced a set of pins that stay true to the interests of the two parties involved- pins and Tupac Shakur.

Chi is releasing a 200 page book celebrating the life of Tupac, titled Uncategorized, filled with a multitude of photos- candid, just like the one at the top of the page- that have never been seen before. To coincide with the book release, Pintrill is coming out with three pins modeled after Chi and Tupac. One is pictured above, another says “Thug Life’ on it, written in a way that mimics the tattoo Tupac had across his stomach, and one featuring Chi Modu’s signature.  The pins are selling for $15 each, and $40 as a set. Chi Modu’s signature only comes in the set, however.

Chi got his beginning at The Source, and sauntered around artists when they were in their natural habitat. He built up companionships with the likes of The Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, and LL Cool J. During his stint there, Chi developed his signature style of photography, which featured catching artists when they didn’t know their photos were being taken.

To commemorate the book and the pin, Pintrill is hosting an event at their flagship store on 231 Street in Brooklyn, NY. There, Chi will talk about his book, showcase different images of Tupac, and discuss his time capturing shots around artists. Afterwards, he’ll be signing books.

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The post Pintrill & Chi Modu Release Tupac Inspired Collaboration appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.