Today we’d like to introduce you to Jungmin Cha
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always been observant, and I was very curious about people and wanted to see them in a deeper context. I remember being bored during my first vacation in America and that’s when I decided to pick up a camera and start taking pictures. At first, I was really into street photography, I was looking for interesting subjects through my “alien” eyes since I had lived in South Korea for the past 25 years. It was enjoyable for me to post my work on Instagram, and because of this I began to get DM’s from clients, but I said no because I had no experience photographing people. Plus, with a student visa, it would have been hard to make money off of jobs. As time went on, I became more curious about photography and took a class at my college. My professor acknowledged my photos and could see that I was very passionate about photography. I spoke to my professor about people asking for portrait shots and paying me, and she said “Why not? You should try everything. You can do it.” So, that is when I began to shoot portraits, and learning how to communicate with models, and create a story with the images.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Roughly yes, but I have had alot of problems with people not giving me credit for my time. Usually, during TFP (trade for print) photoshoots, and 80% of the models were always late, which was hard for me to understand because I come from a country that honors time. With every photoshoot, I gained new perspectives.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am good at environmental portraits, I always pay attention to the backgrounds and composition of the model during the shoot, and I would say that I am very good at this. I am proud of myself, I have been able to become a film photographer and create images that you can feel yourself in that moment and feel like you are there.
What sets me apart from others is the confidence that I believe I can capture the model’s genuine face and moment.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
First, I would say my professor, San Wang Sit, from El Camino College Photo Department. She is the reason why I was encouraged to begin this journey. Also, my dad who loves photography and camera gear. He always told me that I should take photos and had been a great cheerleader and great at business advice. My girlfriend/fiancee, who is by myside always and is my assistant at times.
Pricing:
- 2 Film rolls (about 50 photos): $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.innowjames.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innow_james/
Image Credits
@innow_james
(all photos are taken by me)
