Q & A

How did you get into photography?

My love for photography was introduced to me when I was kid. My father was a photographer and he used to take photos of my family and plantation houses. I enjoyed watching him take pictures and was amazed when I saw what he took. I got my first film camera when I was nine years old as a Christmas present. Everywhere I went, my camera went with me, I was 'that' family member that always had my camera in your face. I just couldn't get enough of taking pictures.

What's the thing that interests you most about photography?

The thing that interests me most about photography is that I loved being a photographer. I love meeting people and being introduced to new things. For me, being a photographer has changed, how I see objects, things, and people. I'm able to see beauty and details that's surrounding me. I'm able to see how light can balance back in a different ways. I love being able to capture someone's emotions and being able to look at that photo three years later.

How do you express yourself through photography?

I believe someone else wouldn't be able to create the same type of pictures that I create because we all have a different way of seeing things. When I take photos, I ask myself questions---what is the subject, what is the story that I am trying to tell, and other questions. I believe you have to learn basic photography rules and break the same rules that you learn. There are no limits to creative impressions and personal expression.

What interests you most about photography?

Photography gives me the opportunity to be creative. The first thing that I love doing is brainstorming. Coming up with themes and what type of pops to use in a shoot. What clothes should he/her wear. What should their makeup/hair look like. The second thing is putting all of those ideas onto a mood-board. A mood-board helps me to understand what direction a shoot is going in. And lastly just putting everything together and seeing my vision come true.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell Jessica to take more risks in life and doing something that she enjoys. You only live once. Don't be afraid to go for it because you can miss good opportunists. To accept myself for who I am and not what I am not. Everyone isn't going to like the photos that I put out but the people who do, will understand me and enjoy my story.

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