Life & Work with Justin Boyd

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Boyd.

Hi Justin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
This year will make seven years in the freelance photography game. I like to have a students approach even with some years under my belt. With a craft like this, you’re always learning new ways to approach a shoot or execute an idea. I started out just on personal curiosity at 13. I have been around cameras my whole life since I was a kid. From my mom or dad taking out the old school VHS or Fuji film to the handheld.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
There isn’t any guide or class that can actually teach you the business side of things. Sure, you can learn a lot of knowledge and resources to further your passion, but I bought my first camera and hit the ground running. I feel personally I needed to do shoots and be hands-on to learn the business. I spent my first 2 years doing almost all free work just to build the experience and rapport before rolling out my photography service. For example, a common problem photographers face when just starting out is knowing what to set your rate. I started out low until I did enough work that I was confident enough to charge a higher rate where I valued my name on other businesses’ behalf.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in portraiture, although I’m also known for my brand/lookbook photography work. What makes my work standout is the raw feeling and emotion that you sense when viewing my photographs. Being able to communicate emotions, thoughts, & ideas visually is key. I’m proud of my growth. When I think about my career so far and how much I’ve been able to do and contribute to other businesses in the community, I can’t help but smile inside. Still more work to be done.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice is don’t stop. The only thing that separates successful people/businesses is that they never quit! Also, to value yourself. Don’t sell yourself short. Sometimes it does take free work to get you in the door, don’t shy away from it think long-term. At the same time, don’t let anyone manipulate you, a lot of times things are said but won’t happen that way have a plan.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jboydvisuals.squarespace.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jboydvisuals
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JBOYDVISUALS/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/jboydvisuals
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDLDEy4HBtpSNJaw4HFZciA