Jalin Hill of Greenville on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Jalin Hill and have shared our conversation below.

Jalin, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
A lot of people see Jphotos and think it’s just a high schooler picking up a camera to make some quick cash. What’s misunderstood is that this is a system; I’m building platforms, not side hustles. Between Jphotos, Photography 101, and 44ever, I’ve created what I like to call a ‘multi-sport athlete’ business model. Each brand has its own lane, but together they make me well-versed across the whole photography and media industry.

I’ve covered Fountain Inn High’s prom and graduation multiple years in a row, created media for Presbyterian College for the past two years, and my work’s been published on GoFountainInn and in multiple magazines. I’ve even assisted live streams on ESPN+, been featured in South Carolina Voyager, and started photography education programs that are shaping the next generation.

So the misunderstanding is that it’s just me taking photos for money. In reality, I’m building long-term companies, expanding opportunities for others, and proving that young entrepreneurs can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with professionals who’ve been in the game for decades.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jalin Hill, a 16-year-old photographer and entrepreneur from Greenville, South Carolina. I run Jphotos, my main business focused on luxury portraits and events, along with Photography 101, a student-led program that helps teens learn photography, and 44ever, my creative sports and event brand. Each one shows a different side of what I love — capturing real stories, teaching others, and creating moments that stand out. For me, it’s all about using creativity to inspire people and build something that lasts.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people are those without integrity, people who say one thing and do another, or twist the story depending on who’s listening. Some people change their truth faster than they change their tone. Trust doesn’t usually explode; it fades in small moments when honesty slips and words lose their weight. What restores those bonds? That’s the hard part. Maybe time, maybe accountability, or maybe just realizing that real connection takes effort on both sides. Sometimes it’s forgiveness, sometimes it’s growth, and sometimes it’s learning when to rebuild and when to walk away.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Just do it. That crazy idea, that absurd business plan, that wild photoshoot concept—just do it. Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect setup, because perfection kills momentum. The world doesn’t reward hesitation; it rewards action. If I could tell my younger self anything, it’d be to stop doubting and start building. Take the risk, take the shot, and don’t care what anybody says. That’s how Photography 101 happened, that’s how Free Senior Portraits started, and that’s how its44ever became real. Every win I’ve had came from a “why not?” moment.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie the photography industry tells itself is that passion is enough. People say, “Do what you love and the rest will follow,” but that’s not how it works. Passion is the start, not the system. You can care deeply about your craft, but if you don’t treat it like a business, it’ll never grow. Another lie? That exposure pays — it doesn’t. Exposure doesn’t cover your time, travel, or gear. Respect does. Consistency does. Value does. That’s why I built Jphotos and 44ever to be more than just names — they’re proof that young photographers can bring structure, professionalism, and creativity all at once. Photography 101 came from the same mindset. It wasn’t for attention, it was to give students a real space to learn, build confidence, and create something they’re proud of. The industry talks a lot about passion, but not enough about discipline, planning, and execution. You can love the art all day, but until you run it like a business, it’ll always stay a hobby.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, my role, and everything I own, I think what would stay is my drive. That part of me that just wants to build something out of nothing. I’ve always been someone who needs to create — not for attention or titles, but because it feels natural. Even if nobody knew who I was, I’d still find a way to make something meaningful. I think that’s what really lasts when you strip everything else away — not the things you have, but the reason you keep going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jphotograph.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jphotos_media/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087087964538

Image Credits
Jalin Hill