August 22, 2016

Meet Compton Photographer: Marvell Jackson

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marvell Jackson.

Marvell, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started taking film camera classes at Cerritos college about 3 years ago. I completed about 4 courses, I moved to Las Vegas for a little over 2 years, while there I did not use my camera at all. I moved back to la, it was difficult finding a job, I had 1800$ in my account and I was spending it fast. Really began to shoot again because I was feeling lost in life, searching for purpose, fulfilling joy. I began shooting landscape, portraits but fell in love with fashion photography. I study the arts, study magazines pay attention to surrounding details in life as I live. I find myself most often want to put projects together, photo shoots, I have many ideas that come to me daily that I live to live out thru photography.

Has it been a smooth road?
It has been difficult but has built character and resilience. I want to live my life as a photographer, for now for work to pay bills I am a union machine pump operator. I use the job a vehicle to but photography equipment, fund the photo shoots that I set up and carry out to keep my portfolio new and current.

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I’m proud each time i put together a photo shoot of my own, more times than none I book the location, the model, I give advice and or select wardrobe. I have to admit being interviewed by your magazine is way up there on the proud moment list!

Tell us more about the struggles you’ve faced along the way.
I struggle now, I struggle to build a team. A team that consists of a panel of models, 4-8 that I can always work with, at least 2 designers, a stylist, 2 make up artist on board to help live out my dream. I think the lack of a team keeps me striving, working hard and dedicated, so when the team of sorts come I will be at ease while directing photography.

Is LA a good place to do what you do?
Compton, Los Angeles are great cities! I wish we would collaborate more, help each other keep the arts alive.

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