Mel D. Cole
Renowned Photographer and Creative Director

Mel D. Cole is a globally recognized, self-taught photographer, celebrated for his powerful and evocative visual storytelling. Raised in Syracuse, NY, Mel has over two decades of experience, capturing iconic moments across a wide range of genres, including photojournalism, music, lifestyle, travel, sports, and documentary photography.

Mel's work is characterized by its raw and authentic portrayal of cultural and social issues. He has documented significant historical events, such as the George Floyd protests and the January 6th Capitol attack, bringing to light the intensity and emotion of these moments through his lens.

In the music world, Mel has photographed some of the industry's most iconic figures, including Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, The Roots and Drake. His ability to capture the essence of these artists has made him a sought-after photographer in the music industry.

In addition to his work in music and photojournalism, Mel has collaborated with major brands and organizations, including the World Bank, Pepsi, and Chelsea F.C. He is the founder of Charcoal Pitch F.C., the first soccer content agency in America dedicated to the Black and multicultural football space. Mel has also directed and produced visual content for various artists and brands, such as Trey Songz and Major League Soccer.

A significant portion of Mel's career has also been dedicated to sports photography, where he has covered major events and captured the essence of athleticism and competition. His work in sports photography further underscores his versatility and ability to tell compelling stories through his images.

A published author, Mel’s notable works include "GREAT: Photographs of Hip Hop by Mel D. Cole 2002 – 2019" and "American Protest: Photographs 2020-2021." His contributions to photography have earned him multiple awards, including Press Photographer of the Year by IPA.

Mel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Cinema and Cultural Studies and African American History from Stony Brook University. His expertise extends to hosting and directing online shows, further showcasing his versatility as a creative professional.

Based in New York City, Mel D. Cole continues to push the boundaries of photography, telling stories that resonate on a global scale