Today we’d like to introduce you to Royal Shurn.
Hi Royal, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started modeling as part of my self-love journey. Growing up, I was always a plus-size girl and often the butt of everyone’s jokes. For a long time, that affected how I saw myself. When I stepped in front of the camera for the first time, modeling became my way of taking my power back. It was more than just posing — it was reclaiming confidence, beauty, and worth.
But I knew modeling wasn’t the end for me. God gave me a creative gift that went beyond where I started. After modeling, I picked up a camera and began learning about lighting, angles, and editing. What started as practice quickly turned into passion. I fell in love with how beautiful and creative life could be when viewed through a lens. My family and friends supported me by letting me photograph them, which helped me grow both as a model and as a creative.
Eventually, I took a sabbatical from the creative space in Kansas City. I needed time to rest and rediscover inspiration. But even during that break, my creativity never died — I was still brainstorming ideas and planning shoots in my mind.
This year marks my first time creating again in two years, and it feels like coming home. I’m stepping back into my purpose with a renewed passion and a deeper understanding of who I am — both behind and in front of the camera
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced a lot of challenges and scrutiny for choosing to be a creative. There were family members who used my weight as a reason why they believed I wouldn’t be successful, and friends who doubted my vision. When I first started modeling, plus-size modeling wasn’t widely accepted or celebrated the way it is now.
I’ve even had photographers tell me to my face that they didn’t understand why I was hired because they “didn’t know how to photograph plus-size women.” That kind of rejection stung, but it never broke me. If anything, it pushed me harder. Through it all, I reminded myself that my creativity is my superpower — and that’s something no one can take from me.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a model, photographer, and creative director — but honestly, I don’t think I have just one specialty. I consider myself an overall creative. I love being able to express myself in different ways, whether that’s being in front of the camera, behind it, or directing the entire vision of a shoot.
I’m not exactly sure what I’m known for, but I’d like to think people recognize the heart and intention I put into everything I create. What I’m most proud of right now is a project I have coming out in about two months. It’s been a long year of self-discovery and growth, and this project really reflects that journey.
I can’t wait to share both the process and the final product with everyone. If you’d like to follow along or see the finished work when it’s released, my Instagram is @royalllshurn.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I see creativity continuing to rise in a big way. I think we’re moving into a time where people are really starting to embrace originality and bold ideas. Personally, I’m challenging creatives in Kansas City — models, photographers, and artists — to think outside the box and push boundaries.
There are so many underrated creatives in KC who deserve recognition for their talent and vision, and I truly hope we start to see them get the spotlight they’ve earned. I also hope to see fashion shows in the city grow — not just in size, but in inclusivity. Representation matters, and I believe the more we embrace diversity in all its forms, the stronger and more inspiring our creative community will become.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @royalllshurn
