Today we’d like to introduce you to James Hardesty.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Started learning about digital photography back in high school my freshman year. Went on to become a photographer and Senior Photo Editor for the school’s yearbook. My senior year I started learning about house music and the raves that took place nearby. Obsessed with the music I looked for a way to get my foot in the door.
As an experienced photographer, I reached out to different people and managed to land a gig shooting for an event. Didn’t have any experience shooting in a dark environment though so it took some getting used to learning how to change my settings and what flash equipment to use. Eventually became the Lead Photographer for an event company that helped me meet a lot of great people and branch out with my work in the industry.
Unfortunately, after a few years of that one of my main pieces of equipment broke and left me with nothing to shoot with. Stopped photographing and started focusing on working full time jobs, landed a Sales Photography Job at the San Diego Zoo and worked there for three years learning more about studio lighting and sales. My last year and a half there I gained more responsibility and was in charge of editing most of the photos being taken and making sure they were stored in the right locations.
Working at the Zoo gave me the knowledge and confidence to know that I was capable of doing much more. After a year of being there I decided to take a credit card out and start investing in new equipment that would help me succeed as a professional. I don’t regret making the big purchases I did because it helped me dive right into the tasks that I wanted to accomplish (Photoshoots, T-shirt Designs, Art). I have gotten the opportunity to travel and experience more of the good things that life has to offer capturing memories along the way. I am currently working on new art and freelancing as an event photographer shooting business conferences and family gatherings.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I find that life can be bumpy at times but if you hold on to the good and stay positive good things will come.
James Hardesty Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
As a Professional Photographer I specialize in Photo Shoots (Brands, Products, Clothing, Etc.) Events, Nightlife & Artwork. I am really pushing my Art more than anything these days. I am really proud of how many professional photography opportunities I’ve been able to have over the past ten years and how confident it has made me as someone in my field. I find that my artwork is very unique and will always stand out in terms of color and perspective.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I know success is when you become wealthy doing what you enjoy. Living a life where your name pays your bills, not the amount of time you clocked in.
Contact Info:
- Email: jhardestyphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/james_hardesty
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