We recently connected with Jamese Wiley and have shared our conversation below.
Jamese , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
The infamous imposter syndrome. Come to think of it, do any of us really overcome it? Or do we all come to terms with the fact that we do not have to “belong” somewhere, but rather we can be effective anywhere!
I think of it like that, which is what got me through those negative feelings that I am an imposter in my profession. If I am being honest, I had imposter syndrome across the board, not only professionally, but at home as well. Can I really do this? Am I really doing this well? Am I even supposed to be doing this?? What if I am wrong? ESPECIALLY when things did not particularly look favorable.
But a lot of self reflection, root work, and fervent prayer gave me a fresh insight, that I literally am meant to be different, so why WOULD I feel like I “belong” anyway? The life of a trailblazer is- in its essence- something never before seen and it’s completely natural to feel uncomfortable at first. It is something to be grown into.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am first and foremost a mother, and a follower of Christ. I LOVE art and anything creative and I am certainly in the business of it. I started off painting-pouring actually. But I grew into my “stream of consciousness” painting where I pick up a brush, turn on the tunes of the day, and flow onto the canvas. I also tried out the fashion model thing, and while I love it, the camera called for me to be behind it instead of in front of it. And I answered the call.
My goal, as always, is to give people a fresh look at themselves and appreciate who they are in the moment. That is all my pictures are! People literally living in the moment in front of me and my Canon 5d Mark II. I use natural lighting and bare minimum edits (i.e. no Photoshop), and let the people speak through the pictures. Poses are not required when in session with me! That’s one thing I feel is very special about my photography, is no one has to portray themselves as something they are not in order to have a powerful photo!
(BTW, my website is now up! I have pieces available for purchase on there so please check it out!)
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I’ll give one of each.
One quality that’s most impactful was and still is my creativity. My creativity paved the way for the journey to even begin, and as it evolves, so does my work. Development comes with remaining inspired, so I would say there’s a level of enthusiasm that can come from looking at previous works for yourself and others and staying on your toes. Just do not get hung up on what the inspiration is doing that you aren’t. It is merely a teachable moment and meant to give you sparks and flutters on your own next venture.
One skill that helped on my journey to this point is problem solving. As a photographer with no studio, no lights, no props, etc I am constantly having to think quickly and problem solve different aspects of every photoshoot. It requires quite a bit of thought and planning to find the perfect location, consider wardrobe functionality, and working with and against the lighting available at the time. Problem solving is a very important skill, especially on days where everything that could go wrong, does. You have to be able to come quickly with a backup plan, and a backup for the backup.
Last but certainly not least, the arts gave me the freedom to be who I am called to be in this profession. With art being subjective and meaning something different to each viewer, it is empowering and gives me great courage to be able to step out into something that is totally mine, and owning it. I can’t stress enough how mandatory it is to find that confidence in what YOU do and creating your own lane. Your work does not have to look like anyone else’s! That is how art IS. Honestly, the more different, the better!
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I am absolutely looking for collaborators as well as paid opportunities! Models, photographers, companies (hotels, restaurants, etc), influencers, and all the rest! I want to put a special touch on as much as I can, while I can.
I am more on the editorial side of things, and want to explore that more, so that’s where the models and agencies would come in.
I am very interested in taking stock photos for companies and their social media and websites!
I would love to help take special photos for content for influencers, and the list goes on.
Even if there is someone I haven’t specifically mentioned, I still am open to a new venture- that’s what keeps me on my toes!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hausofhazon.com
- Instagram: @hazon.haus
- Facebook: Hazon Haus Studio LLC
Image Credits
Savannah (First 2)
Lainey (Second 2)
Kayla (Third 2)
Kendall (Fourth 2)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
