A native of Fairfax, VA, McKain studied advertising at VCU in Richmond before traveling the world for three years with little more than a backpack. During this time, he published a print magazine called Modern Hieroglyphics and honed his photography skills while connecting with creatives of all disciplines along the way. Specializing in intimate portraiture shot entirely on film, McKain is known for his cinematic yet candid photographs of up-and-coming musicians. Whether shooting icons like Common, Lupe Fiasco, and Seal, or newer artists like Sampha, Willow Smith, or Leon Bridges, his focus is directed towards the humanity in his subjects rather than their celebrity status.