NAME: NICKIE LEE ROSE
FAVORITE CAMERA: CANNON EOSR
From the Bronx to the World
From the Bronx to the World
Life has a way of introducing you to the right people at the right time.
After college, I landed my first “big girl” job as an executive assistant to one of the most well-respected music executives in the industry—at least, in my opinion. The role gave me a front-row seat to the inner workings of the music business. While I had the pleasure of meeting many talented artists, I found myself most drawn to the people behind the scenes. No offense to the artists (I love you all!), but their teams were the ones who truly fascinated me.
Managers, assistants, publicists, and photographers—each played a crucial role in an artist’s success. But one team, in particular, stood out. HDBeenDope’s crew didn’t just feel like colleagues; they felt like family. More than just a team, they were a collective—LABB, short for “Learn And Become Better.” It was more than a name; it was a philosophy, a shared identity.
At the heart of this creative powerhouse? Nickie Rose.
Nicki isn’t just HD’s photographer—she’s his hype woman, accountability partner, and sister in every sense of the word. She plays a pivotal role in his journey, ensuring that his moments aren’t just lived but captured with an artistic vision that tells a story. And while her bond with HD is undeniable, her talent extends far beyond their circle.
“Me and my friends, we’re just so f*ing cool—why not be cool out loud?”** – Nicki Rose
Through her lens, Nicki has captured music giants such as Drake, Central Cee, Burna Boy, SZA, and many more. For this feature, we are thrilled to highlight her story.
The Origins of a Visionary
The Origins of a Visionary
Hailing from the Bronx, NY, Nicki’s journey into photography started with hip-hop’s renowned publication, Word Up! Magazine—a cultural staple that shaped an entire generation’s perception of music and artists. “My mom used to cop them for me whenever I visited her in the Bronx. I’d cut out photos of Chris Brown, B2K, and 50 Cent and plaster them all over my wall.”
As she got older, her passion for collecting art transitioned to Tumblr, where she discovered photographers like Renell Medrano and artists like A$AP Rocky. “There was always some fly s***, very New York, and I wanted to take photos like that. So I asked my pops for a camera.”
That request set her on a path that would eventually lead to capturing some of the biggest names in music.
The Shot Seen Around the World
When asked about her most notable project, Nickie doesn’t hesitate. “If you ask people on the outside, they’d probably say the photo of Drake and Central Cee at On The Radar.”
In July 2023, she was gifted a rare opportunity by her friend Gabe P, the creator of On The Radar—a chance to photograph two legends as a birthday present. “That was a big opportunity. The fact that he called me made me feel like, ‘Damn, motherfers really respect my s—that they would call me when legends are coming into town.’”
So, how did it feel to capture that moment? “I have this thing where I don’t fully realize what I’m doing—not even in the moment.” She explains, “It’s not until after, maybe when I post it or see it out in the world, that it really sinks in.”
For Nickie, the experience felt almost surreal—like it was tailor-made for her. “I have no idea how anyone else in the room felt, but from him asking to see the photos, requesting me to send them—even asking for my IG to follow—it all just validated that I’m good being me, no matter where I go.”
The Places That Stole Her Heart
For someone who has traveled the world, picking a favorite destination isn’t easy. But for Nicki, two places stand out above the rest.
“I’ve been bragging about this ever since I left—South Africa and Switzerland have my heart. Those are two places I just can’t let go of.”
During her time on tour with Burna Boy, Nickie’s team surprised her with an early trip to Switzerland for her birthday, allowing her to take in its breathtaking landscapes before the tour resumed. “When I got there, I was like, ‘This is unbelievable.’ I really appreciate the team for that. Since I’m the only American on the crew, they always encourage me to explore and see that there’s so much more to the world.”
From the vibrant culture of South Africa to the serene beauty of Switzerland, these destinations left a lasting impression on Nickie—ones she continues to cherish long after leaving. “I tried to FaceTime everybody. I called my manager, Ju, but the call wouldn’t go through. I tried calling my mom, but that call didn’t go through either. That was the moment I realized—just like the Drake experience, that moment was cut out for me.”
Nickie’s Top Three Photographers
So, who are the photographers that inspire Nicki Rose?
She lets out a playful groan.
“Oughh, I’m a fan of photographers who make me feel like, ‘Damn, I don’t think I could do that right now—let me go study and figure out how to level up.’”
After a little thought, she gives her top three:
- Ranell Medrano– From the Bronx, NY
“I look at her as an icon. She’s an Afro-Latina from the Bronx with an incredible mind and eye. She’s the full package of what it means to be a fly creator from the BX.”
- Jack Bridglen – From the UK
“The way he lights studios? No one does it like him.”
- Adrienne Raquel – From Texas
What’s Next for Nickie in 2025?
As we step into 2025, Nicki is ready to move beyond the lens—not just as a photographer but as a creative visionary.
“I want to step out from being just the person behind the lens. I know I’m multi-talented in so many ways, but my biggest blessing is my eye,” she shares. “I’ll still be in the visual space, but maybe stepping into directing or creative direction. It’s time to branch out.”
With a sharp artistic vision and an ever-evolving perspective, Nickie Rose’s next chapter is one to watch.
You can find Nickie in the BX or on IG AND TIKTOK, @NickieLeeRose
