Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Williams.
Mark, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Honestly my story is pretty simple. I have an older sister who had a small Kodak camera she used to take photos with. It took terrible pictures, even for that time period, but I still felt the need to mess with her belongings. I used to take the camera to middle/high school and take pictures of whatever I could find on the corner of Crenshaw and Slauson. Whether it be graffiti, flowers, people playing basketball, didn’t matter to me. Taking pictures became second nature after a while, easier than breathing at times because the camera felt so natural in my hands. After some years, I was able to purchase my own camera and I spent thousands of hours learning the craft, dedicated to becoming better. Eventually, I felt confident enough to try my hand at freelance photography which led me to where I am today, traveling and making a living off of photographs.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I think smooth is the antonym of the word that describes the road I’ve been on to get to where I’m at currently. From stolen camera equipment, burned bridges, going months without taking a single picture, health issues, loss of passion, the list is miles long. There were a couple of times over the last few years where I had my doubts about photography, wondering if it’s still for me. Somehow I always came back to it though, it never fails. I know now it’s a forever relationship, irreplaceable and immovable. As always, “the marathon continues.”
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Questionmarkk – what should we know?
I’ve been going by the alias Questionmarkk on Instagram for the last seven years, known for portraiture photography, specifically of upcoming/established models. The thing I’m most proud of is my versatility as a photographer. While I mainly market my ability photography models, I can also capture weddings, maternity sessions, newborns, family photos, etc. with the same precision.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My mom, dad, and sister deserve so much credit for even believing I could be successful taking the freelance photographer route in the first place. Erica, for keeping me on track. When I’m days behind on editing and I don’t even feel like getting out of bed to edit. She’s the best friend every entrepreneur needs. Myron, Richard, Alec for letting me talk their ears off with ideas and aspirations and taking me to photoshoots when I didn’t have transportation. Arianna, for helping me out of that dark place where the idea of still being a photographer no longer seemed reasonable or appealing. Deja, for always being a source of inspiration, a reminder that I could always be better than I was and more than what I’m used to. All the clients that chose to work with me even though there’s thousands of other photographers to choose from. Special thanks to the individuals that donated time and money to help me replace my stolen camera and equipment. There are countless other people on the front lines and behind the scenes that played their part in getting me to this point in my career, one way or another. I’m forever grateful.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/questionmarkk/
Image Credit:
Photo of myself is by Myron Rogan IG:@Myronrogan
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