Rising Stars: Meet A. Jay

Today we’d like to introduce you to A. Jay.

A. Jay, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I have been a creative my entire life, but in 2013 I decided to go to school to become a better photographer and businesswoman, thanks to the guidance and support of my boyfriend.

While in college, I was blessed with the opportunity to be a sports photographer for the Los Angeles Clippers, which opened so many doors for me. I continued to grow as a photographer and a business while continuing to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to expand.

On this journey to becoming more skilled in photography, I have been put in positions to shoot for many major studios in Hollywood, which gave me the confidence and motivation I needed to push harder. Being inside places, I never imagined I would step foot in has been the biggest game changer for me. It motivated me to create something of my own that I can use to build a legacy.

After creating a photography business, I was fortunate to have my boyfriend bring in his expertise in business and management to help us build a successful photography company and we have been striving to provide quality images and experiences throughout Los Angeles ever since. Without him, NONE of this would have been possible!

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?
Building a business and living your dreams, especially in Los Angeles, is never smooth for us creatives. What I can say is that my struggles have not at all hindered me from accomplishing my goals. In fact, some of what most would call a “struggle” has empowered me to go harder and shaped me into the businesswoman I am today.

The biggest challenge I have faced would be holding down 4 gigs while being in school full time and trying to grow a business and be a functional human lol. Working 14-hour days, then going to class the next day was hard, and some days I needed everything to get through it.

One thing it all taught me was the importance of having someone on your team to make sure you are covered during those times. I honestly might have struggled even more if I did not have support.

It was not easy, but it definitely shaped my mindset into that of a driven, goal-oriented woman. Having to be sharp and keep high energy while facing exhaustion but still making the client feel like you just woke up is a superpower!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
ONA Photography is a photo-based business servicing the Los Angeles and surrounding areas. We specialize in multiple photography avenues such as Headshot Photography for actors and working/corporate professionals, as well as High Fashion/Editorial portraits for magazines and models.

We are most proud of the team we have built and the incredible work we have been able to accomplish together!

What sets us apart is that we go above and beyond to truly connect with our clients so we can not only bring them genuine moments but incredible results! Our team is made up of highly professional, driven creatives that strive to make you comfortable and give you exactly what you asked for, as well as things you didn’t know you needed! Not only do our clients feel they are in great hands, they also experience a photography crew that truly loves what they do, which shows the moment a session is booked!

After you book a session with us, we offer amazing pre-shoot consultations so you can walk into our session feeling confident and ready!

What’s next?
I don’t like to speak on things before they happen, but we definitely have amazing things in store!

I can say the plan has always been to continue growing and developing the skills needed to become a high-end photography company that provides quality, creativity and professionalism. I want to become the company you think of when you want the best photography experience.

So the plan is to keep building up ONA Photography, so we can continue to grow as a business and service more people throughout our community. I would love to have multiple opportunities to travel the world and create opportunities for other photographers. I believe there is no use in having all this knowledge and expertise if you can’t teach the next generation!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.onaphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onaphotography/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ona-photography-los-angeles?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Image Credits
ONA Photography