WHERE INTENTION AND CREATIVITY ALIGN

 

The Tembo–Swahili for elephant–is a creature grounded in strength, spirit, dignity, and power that unapologetically takes up space. A tone is an experience of colors, hues, voices, and characters that evokes unique sentiments in each of us. 

 
 
 
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WE ARE TEMBO TONES

And we specialize in humanity. As a multi-disciplinary creative studio, we use photography, fine art, and design to capture the unique powers of entrepreneurs and storytellers of color to craft intentional brands rooted in honest expression. We seek to honor, understand and energize your brand’s spirit in order to create aesthetic and strategic foundations that align with your deepest truths, intentions, and missions.

We do not offer services, we offer the most immersive and personal creative experience. We create a safe space where you can dig deep to uncover every nuance, every detail and every texture that moves your business from unique to transformative. We know the value of heart-driven entrepreneurship and rich culture, and we empower you with the tools and the community to drive your mission forward.

 
 
 

A NOTE FROM POOJA, THE FOUNDER

I am grounded in my identity as a Kenyan-Indian-American woman. My cultural identity shapes how I see the world...and how I show up in it. It’s the rich soil that cultivates my art, philosophy, and communications. Yet as a woman of color, I have witnessed the ways in which society has dishonored, misunderstood, and undervalued our creativity. That’s why I’m committed to showing up big and bold for myself every day. 

Reclamation is my birthright. Prioritizing my voice is my birthright. Following my joy is my birthright.

As a creative director, I understand the power of your story and truth. And as your creative partner, I will embrace your missions and use my skills to help you reclaim your birthright.

— Pooja Shah

 

MUSINGS FROM OUR MUSES

Featured
Neha

The experience shooting with Tembo Tones was one of the most elevated creative processes I've experienced. From the ease of logistics to the caliber of creativity, working with Tembo Tones was a real treat. The logistics of the shoot were just as thoughtful as the creative processes leading up to it. Pooja provided all parties with a detailed run of the show so everyone was on the same page. And by no surprise, the final product was breathtaking. Not only were the shots incredible, but the editing was unbelievable. The portfolio showcased her skillfulness in editing a diverse range of moods, from classic/timeless to sexy/edgy. If you're looking for a creative partner to elevate your brand and bring your unique creative vision to life, look no further.

Alida

I have been a fan and supporter of Pooja Shah for the last three years, and in that time, I've had the privilege of watching her continuously hone her artistic craft. As she was launching Tembo Tones, I wanted to seal my appreciation for her with a collaborative project. Pooja art directed and photographed the full Ethos Team offsite, putting together mood boards, conducting office tours, sourcing and staging props, and working with each of us to make sure we felt comfortable, supported, and confident in front of the camera. Our images are lived in, branded, and organic. We couldn't be happier with the artistic vision she brought, and the attentiveness and client-first focused that characterized her entire approach.

Aana

Pooja has an incredible ability to absorb your light and reflect it out into the world through words and images. Whether professional or personal, the resulting reflection is a celebration and acknowledgment of the most powerful parts of you. Working with Pooja on both professional and personal projects clarified my story and helped to develop a mold-breaking platform to elevate my voice with the intent of creating space for other ambitious and mold-breaking voices.

Erinne

When I first started working with Pooja, she asked me very thoughtful questions about my mission and vision. The way she played back to me what she heard and how she translated that to a mood board made me feel like she really got me! She thought of everything I needed to create a beautifully styled photoshoot and helped me come out of my shell to show off the best of me on camera. I absolutely love the images that came out of our photoshoot, the way Pooja captured the richness of my complexion, and the way she reflected my most beautiful, feminine, and powerful, authentic self.

Abby

Pooja was wonderful to work with! She made it so easy. I am so thankful for the photos she took. She is extremely talented and captured exactly what I had hoped - even though I was halfway across the world!