Maurice "Sonny" Strickland (born January 1983), is an American photographer, creative director, musician, videographer, and entrepreneur. Hailing from the Austin neighborhood on Chicago’s West Side, Strickland has made a name for himself since his emergence in 2003 as one of the Windy City’s most talented and respected independent creatives.
His work is rooted in what he describes as "Editorial Realism" — a visual approach that blends the polish and intention of editorial imagery with the honesty, emotion, and presence of real life. Rather than manufacturing moments, Sonny focuses on creating space for people to show up as themselves. His images are fashion-forward yet human, refined yet grounded — prioritizing mood, restraint, and authenticity over trend or spectacle.
Influenced by culture, design, and the quiet confidence of timeless imagery, Sonny approaches each project with an emphasis on storytelling, collaboration, and trust. Whether photographing a fashion campaign, an intimate portrait, or a wedding day, his goal remains the same: to create images that feel considered, emotionally intelligent, and enduring.
Beyond his creative work, the Chicago artist is a strong advocate for fellow artists and entrepreneurs, promoting open collaboration and group economics to empower the city’s next generation of talent.
Clients
Bank Of America Chicago Marathon
StretchLab Hyde Park
The Satorical Club
Optimo Hats
Corporate Curly
The SET Collective Chicago
Rebuild The Hood Inc
Imbued Fashion Magazine
The Chicago EDIT
The Rock Agency
One Management Chicago
Ford Models LA
Next Models
Rune Models
10MGMT
Cabo Models MX
Select Model Chicago
VNY Models NYC
MUSE Models NYC
BASE Models UK
Major Models NYC
Bicoastol MGMT YC
Artistic Influences
Miles Davis
Peter Lindbergh
Tupac Shakur
Annie Leibovitz
John Mayer
Mos Def
Gordon Parks
Quincy Jones
Spike Lee
Helmet Newton
Bob Marley
James Baldwin
Jimmi Hendrix
Nina Simone
Denzel Washington