What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned in your career thus far?
Honestly? Patience. Being a photographer requires a lot of patience. Whether it’s waiting for the right moments to capture that perfect shot or understanding that everyone you work with may not be used to (or comfortable with) taking photos. So across the years a little patience has achieved a lot of great results and fantastic business relationships.
What other careers did you consider, if any? And why did you ultimately choose not to pursue them?
I’ve always joked with friends by saying [that] if I wasn’t a photographer, I have no idea what I’d be posting on Instagram. I think the same could be said about my choice of career as well. I only ever wanted to do photography when I chose to take the big step. I didn’t even think about a Plan B because it was very clear to me. It all worked out in the end, so for that I’m grateful. Pretty sure there’s a lesson here about how you should always take that leap of faith.
How has your work evolved over time, and how do you see it continuing to grow?
I would say I started as the photographer who could (and would) do anything and everything: events (cruises, garden parties, clubs, etc), outdoor birthday shoots, birthday parties, you name it. Evolving meant that I had to find out what the market lacked and, luckily for me, it was that type of work I enjoyed doing the most.
So I cut out everything else and focused on just that. Now look across my feed, or on my website, and the body of work displayed is geared more towards the clients I actually want to attract and work with. The next goal is to extend that network to a longer list of clients, beyond the shores of Barbados.
For you as an artist, is there a work of art or an artist that resonates with you on a profound level?
I’ve always been impressed with international photographers the most, especially those based in Nigeria. Their creativity and ability to produce amazing photos, sometimes in spaces that are even smaller than what we have available here, always inspired me. Their content is very clean as well because the focus is never on anything lewd, which resonates with me the most.
What’s the most rewarding part of being an artist?
To open a magazine, a website, or to drive around and spot a billboard or a banner with an image that you created is an immense feeling and reward within itself. As an artist you always strive for that level of trust and appreciation from your clients, which is why I always tell people to aim for beyond social media.
Your work will look great there, no doubt, but it will look even better when you can physically see it to truly appreciate everything that went into it. Nothing beats a Jet2 holiday, but that comes pretty close.
