Few people can combine music and style as effortlessly and flawlessly as Mary J. Blige. Blige has become a fashion icon as well as a music icon thanks to her strong vocals and dominating presence. Her photo sessions, which show her transition from Yonkers’ streets to the international scene, are a monument to the evolution of her style. Let’s take a closer look at the painstaking planning and execution that go into Mary J. Blige’s gorgeous fashion photo sessions.

The Conceptualization Phase

Every memorable photoshoot begins with a concept. For Mary J. Blige, the process starts with a brainstorming session involving her creative team, which includes a stylist, makeup artist, hair stylist, photographer, and sometimes even a set designer. The aim is to create a narrative that resonates with her brand and current projects.

“The first step is understanding Mary’s vision,” says Jason Bolden, Blige’s long-time stylist. “We look at what’s happening in her career at the moment—whether it’s a new album, a film, or an award show appearance—and build the concept around that.”

For example, when Blige was promoting her album “Strength of a Woman,” the photoshoot concept revolved around themes of empowerment and resilience. The team chose powerful, structured outfits and bold makeup looks to complement the album’s message.

The Fashion Selection

With a concept in mind, the next step is selecting the fashion pieces. Blige’s style is a blend of high fashion and streetwear, and her photoshoots often reflect this duality. Bolden pulls garments from top designers like Versace, Balmain, and Alexander McQueen, as well as emerging designers that align with Blige’s aesthetic.

“Mary has an incredible eye for fashion,” Bolden explains. “She’s not afraid to take risks, whether it’s a daring silhouette or a vibrant color palette. We make sure each piece tells a part of the story we’re creating.”

The Fitting Sessions

Fittings are crucial to ensure every outfit looks flawless on Blige. These sessions can take hours, with Blige trying on multiple looks, each meticulously adjusted to fit her perfectly. The stylist and designer often make on-the-spot alterations to ensure that the garments not only look good but also allow Blige to move comfortably and confidently.

“Fittings are where the magic happens,” says Bolden. “It’s where we see the vision come to life. Mary is very hands-on during this process, providing input on what she feels most powerful in.”

The Glam Squad: Hair and Makeup

Once the outfits are selected, attention turns to hair and makeup. Blige’s glam squad, led by makeup artist D’Andre Michael and hairstylist Tym Wallace, work in harmony to create looks that enhance the overall concept.

“For each photoshoot, we consider the mood and the message we want to convey,” says Michael. “Mary’s makeup can range from natural and glowing to bold and dramatic, depending on the theme. The goal is to enhance her features and complement the fashion choices.”

Wallace adds, “Mary’s hair is another key element. We experiment with different styles—sleek, voluminous, or even edgy cuts—to match the vibe of the shoot. It’s all about creating a cohesive look.”

The Photoshoot Day

On the day of the shoot, the energy is electric. The location is carefully chosen to match the theme, whether it’s a sleek studio setting or an outdoor urban backdrop. The team arrives early to set up, ensuring that lighting and props are perfect.

Blige arrives ready to transform. Despite her star status, she’s known for her professionalism and collaborative spirit. “Mary is incredible to work with,” says renowned photographer Mario Sorrenti. “She brings such a powerful presence to the set, and she’s very involved in the creative process. She knows how to work the camera and deliver the emotion we’re aiming for.”

The Execution

During the shoot, Blige’s experience and confidence shine through. She effortlessly transitions between poses, taking direction while also adding her unique flair. The team constantly adjusts lighting, wardrobe, and makeup to capture the perfect shot.

“It’s a collaborative effort,” Sorrenti explains. “We try different angles, lighting setups, and poses to ensure we get a variety of shots. Mary’s input is invaluable—she knows what works best for her.”

The Final Touches

After the shoot, the photographer and creative team review the images, selecting the best ones. These go through post-production, where minor retouches enhance the final look. However, the aim is always to maintain Blige’s authenticity and natural beauty.

“The final images should feel real and powerful,” says Bolden. “They should reflect who Mary is—strong, stylish, and unapologetically herself.”