Today we’d like to introduce you to Duchaine Augustin Jr..
Hi Duchaine, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
This whole journey all started during my final semester in college taking a photography class. As soon as a couple of classes passed, I knew that I wanted to pursue this as a career but unfortunately COVID occurred and put a pin in my plans. I wasn’t able to move to California until February 2022.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely wasn’t smooth sailing. Especially coming from New York to LA with no contacts. There were a lot of cold emailing agencies, influencers, and more. I would say even if it still isn’t, because of how much social media continuously changes, you have to adapt to the change. You have to learn this new technique or this way of shooting. Every day there is someone picking up a camera. The two biggest problems are understanding where you are as a photographer, how much you charge, and what you do for free. Is it worth giving you hard work for a connection? Second is knowing and being comfortable with your style. Since we are such a media-driven world, you see people doing so many different styles or different perspectives on one image. I would say that it takes the longest.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in editorials, portraits, and high fashion. Those are my most favorite categories of photography I enjoy creating. From my friends and clients, I’m known for the colors and composition. What I’m most proud of is the growth in photography. I’ve only been shooting for approximately five years. I never thought I could grow this fast. Being patient with myself on becoming an amazing photographer. I think what sets me apart from others is my demeanor towards every project. I always want what is best for anyone that stands in front of my camera. A clear cohesive line of communication between the client and I on what is the end result we are looking for. Also, the client allows me to take control and trust that I may know best in certain situations.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that this is a profession that takes time. Most times, it’s not about the gear; it is the product. There are moments where I do feel impostor syndrome. Never feeling good enough to bat at the plate but I know now that I am. Just being positive and moving with the best foot forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.duframes.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/duchaine_/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/dutoxic17
Image Credits
Olivia Coddiu Coral Cataldo Sally Chow Jocelyn Nickel Sarah Gibsonn Momo Casey McClellan Daniel Pedroza
