Today we’d like to introduce you to Jose Lawrence.
Jose, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Growing up, I have always been creative, whether it be writing, drawing, or poetry. I used different styles as an outlet and to better express my view of the world. When I became an adult and started my career in the airline industry, I found great sky views whenever I worked. It inspired me to purchase my first camera, a Canon 80D.
With my first venture into photography, I knew nothing and wondered why my photos didn’t look like the ones on social media and the web. Over time I studied more, practiced editing and developed my style. A trip to New Orleans a few years ago really solidified for me the joy of photography and freezing beautiful moments in time, eventually finding my niche in street, boudoir and portrait photography.
Slowly my friends started to ask how much I charge for shoots, others used to ask me to shoot special occasions and events for them. At that point in 2019, I officially made the move to turn my passion into a business. Of course for me the education aspect doesn’t stop, so until this day, I still absorb information on the subject and find inspiration in pop culture, nature, history, other creatives and social issues.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
With any budding new business, it has been a very difficult road. Photography isn’t a cheap venture, nor is marketing oneself. I found raising capital to be extremely difficult, as well as putting myself out there more to meet new prospective clients and other creatives to collaborate with. Truthfully it is still difficult. However, I find the passion I have can be seen in my work.
Due to Covid-19, as with many small businesses, mine has been affected as well. Location-based shooting is difficult at times because not every location is open to the public and some studios have completely shut down. Many clients are also very concerned for their safety and health during these times, so to ease concerns, I tend to work more now with previous clients or mask up when its someone new while also maintaining social distance as much as possible. I also find maintaining optimism to be difficult at times. However, taking photos in my own spare time and editing serves as an excellent release for my own stress and states of anxiety. Every new business struggles but in my opinion its all about how you get through those struggles that define if you make it.
JLaw Inspired Images – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
JLaw Inspired Images is a photography and creative based business. I specialize in portraits, events, bridal, photojournalism and fine art. I’m known for my ability to make anyone look like a professional muse. I’m most proud of the experience I provide my clients. It’s essential for me to keep the setting as comfortable, safe and fun as possible. When you work with me, I’m always listening to your story and attempting to capture the full essence of who you are or the mood of your event through my lens.
What I’m most proud of as a company is working with upcoming models, I work hard to also educate them a bit in photography, to understand light, help them boost confidence and also how to spot scams or dangerous work conditions. I love giving other creatives their time to shine by featuring their work in my photos as props and promoting them. Supporting black business and advancement is central to my motivation so I take it very seriously and find pleasure in networking.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to get the best out of my subjects and getting people to open up. I have experience is sociology and psychology, so I’m aware everyone has insecurities that they are working through myself included. So I’m especially attentive and understanding, my sessions are in a way therapeutic for my clients. My goal is to help my client become the best version of themselves if even only for a short session. I find immense joy in providing a “WOW”, experience by any means.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I have lofty future plans for the business. In the short term, when Covid subsides I plan on taking travel photos of exotic locations as well as providing full print services for clients and art enthusiasts looking to purchase more of my creative work. Also venturing more into drone photography and videography. I feel eventually cinematography is my longterm goal, working on music videos and short films. That way I tie all of my various disciplines together.
That being said I also will be owning a studio that will offer services to a wide array of audio and visual art styles, an inspiring place where creatives can work together and also where the youth can come be mentored and learn different techniques of visual arts.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jlawinspired.com
- Phone: 7544234088
- Email: jlawphoto2@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jlaw_inspired
Image Credit:
JLaw Inspired Images, LLC
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