Jamie Jazell
How did you get your start in photography?
As a child, I always enjoyed taking photos on field trips and at family functions. As smartphones developed better cameras, I continued taking photos, using apps like VSCO and Lightroom to edit them. People would compliment my photography and ask me to capture them/make prints, so becoming a photographer came about pretty organically. Eventually, the light bulb went off like 'You enjoy doing this & people enjoy what you do, so you should explore this seriously.' Once I was able to invest in a DSLR, I did so and began studying various books on photography and YouTube photographers to learn about camera functions, editing, and more.
How would you describe your photography style?
It shifts depending on the moment. As you may be able to tell, I'm obsessed with black and whites and the color red.
What is your personal process to capture a great photo?
First, I try to put my subject at ease. Photos always come out better when the person captured feels comfortable. I then try to create visual harmony between them and whatever surrounds us.
What other photographers influenced you the most and how has their influence shaped your craft?
I'm influenced by many badass women photographers out there sharing their point of view. Two that jump to mind first are Renae Wootson (@iironic) and Gianna Leo Falcon(@emothug84). I dig Renae's ability to capture the essence of live moments and make you feel like you're there. Gianna is a close friend and fellow photographer who is great at storytelling and is always there for encouragement. The influence I draw from them is to make a statement and keep shooting.
What are some of the challenges you have faced as a photographer?
As a self-taught photographer, the learning curve is most challenging. At first, I was intimidated by all the great work I saw and by the fact that I had no clue where to start. As the saying goes though, 'Ain't nothing to it but to do it!'
What’s next for Jamie?
Prints from a new series I've been working on will be available soon. I will also be participating in Art All Night in September. Other than that, what's next is a continuous state of learning and growth in my craft.
What motto or quote do you live your life by?
A patient man will eat ripe fruit. -African proverb
For more on this artist, please visit www.jamiejazell.com and follow on social media at @jamiejazell