Meet Jim O’Neil

We were lucky to catch up with Jim O’Neil recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jim, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

My optimism comes from my mom. She had a very tough upbringing & throughout her life she remained positive & she instilled that in me. She always told us that no matter what we think is a terrible situation, that somewhere else in this world is going through something that is more difficult than what we are dealing with. It not always easy to think or act like that, but it’s what I strive for each & everyday, to be a positive influence to everyone I meet or see’s my photos.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

There is something special about nature that is all around us. A brilliant sunrise can be uplifting & a photo of a tender moment can bring back good memories’. A sunrise or a sunset can paint the sky & remind people that their is goodness all around us. Taking photos make me feel like I am serving a higher calling to share our creators beauty. Not everyone has the chance or means to witness this kind of magic in person.

Currently I am working on becoming a better photographer. I have not had any schooling or taken classes to fully understand how I am taking my pictures. Its all self taught. I have been given tips that are helpful from fellow photographers & that is a plus. Being self taught can be a hindrance, but I will keep trying out new techniques & see how it fits my way of capturing my subjects.
I am happy to tell your readers that I will have a website up by the end of August , if not sooner. I also some of my prints hanging in a local gallery here in Myrtle Beach.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

The most impactful part of my journey was just taking the plunge and buying my first camera. I find it gives me more joy than using a cellphone. I still use my phone if the camera is not with me, but self teaching me how to start taking a shot with my camera is a positive & somewhat crazy adventure. My best advise is just keep taking pictures of things you like or enjoy and embrace the challenges that will come, when you are trying to capture that special moment.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

My parents had 7 children. We ran them ragged & their where some tragic events that we all had to deal with. Both of my parents were very strong, but also vulnerable and taught us to overcome many of the difficulties that we dealt with growing up. I use them everyday. They encourage us to be a good person. To be kind to others & help out when you can. I can hear their wisdom when I think I am having a rough go of it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jimmydreamzphotography.com
• Instagram: Jimmy dreamz photography
• Facebook: JImmyDreamz
• Twitter: jimmydreamsmb

Image Credits

All images taken by Jim O’Neil at Jimmydreamzphotography