We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Joshua Miller. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Joshua below.
Joshua, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
When bad moments are in front of you; it’s best to think of time like an eclipse. It’ll pass. There was light before; there will surely be light after the dark. There’s no amount of time, but you must remain attached to the dreams and aspirations you’ve created for yourself. Growing up, I’d say I had a good environment surrounding me. There were moments when it may have been a house move, a change of school, or a circumstance change. Regardless, I’ve made it to where I am now. Of course, I remember those moments, but I don’t want those moments to hold me back. For as long as I can remember; I’ve always been called a dreamer. Even a little delusional at times, but I know I wasn’t given these ideas and thoughts just for them to stay in my head. Either another version of me has achieved it, or it’s right around the corner from where I currently am in life. It’s important to recognize how much and far you can think. When I say the statement “I don’t know how I’m going to do it, but I’m going to do it”, I’m not sure of the actual plan, but with me being me or in this case you being you…you have to step outside the box and really think about all of the resources you have at hand. Whether it’s family, friends, teachers, or simply a stranger. The worst thing somebody can do is either a cold shoulder or say no.
Dreams for me are chapters in my life that I’ve missed (the bad ones) and the chapters later in my book (the good ones).
My dad has always told me to look forward, and don’t let people deter my thought process; the only thing they can do is teach. Block out the criticism and any negativity bricks thrown your way. metaphorically speaking…
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?
I’m Josh Miller, and I do photography. I’ve been taking pictures now for almost 2 years; Initially started as a hobby turned side hustle. I grew up in Atlanta and went away to school. It gave me a different perspective on how things are. I’m 21, and now is the best time to create a foundation full of lessons and networking.
JCMill is my photographer name thus making the name “SHOTSBYJCMILL”.
Photography has given me a lot of valuable connections and insight into how behind-the-scenes work with productions. Currently in college majoring in Computer Science. Having a business alongside college is teaching me ways of balancing and valuing my time. Lessons I will probably use for the rest of my life. I mostly shoot portrait-style photos. The more I grow my business, the scale of my projects is expanding. My first shoots were with friends and family, and now being brands and clients. The traditional trajectory of a photographer; At moments it feels surreal. Right now, I’ve been improving the business side of it all. I was official before, but now we’re really official. For me, taking pictures is a way to release my creative energy. Coming up with an idea and thinking about what’s available to execute the desired result. Your brain is a muscle, and you must use it for it to grow. With that being said; I’ve done a lot of growing. I plan to take pictures and step into the world of videography in the future.
This year so far has really been a journey. Reflecting back on moments like attending my first tv screening, experiencing graduation season, and attending events that have made me think further than I already was. I’ve spent my summer in Atlanta, and I see the potential of what I can do up here after graduation. Connecting with fellow photographers, and studio owners, and just being social about something I love. Honestly what sticks out to me is just how far I can go in this field. The biggest thing for me is that I continue to improve. If you look back at some of my first shoots compared to now, there is some visual growth. Learning more about the editing applications, specific lighting set-ups, and being efficient.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Resilience, Boundaries, and Objective. Those are the three words that continue to build me as a person.
Being resilient has allowed me to block out the noise. Remembering that I am in control at times, I may be overwhelmed or alone on an idea. A thought to add is everybody won’t understand your thought process. Having that in your mind it allows you to be comfortable in your own head. Although I appreciate brainstorming and bouncing ideas off of people, some of my best ideas so far have brought me much joy and success. With a business, you sign up for more than the item or service itself. You sign up for marketing, finances, PR, and everything else. In my early days, my biggest thing was pricing. I didn’t have any fellow photographers around me at the time. Depending on who you ask, they’ll tell you a different number. I remember posting my first advertisement. My sophomore year of college, and with my first few clients being in college. I did receive some criticism initially, but it was on me to stick by the prices I made. I know what I can do; just had to justify and showcase my skills to people.
Boundaries, Boundaries, Boundaries. In the world of having a business, it’s on you to do the heavy lifting. That also means knowing when to and not to deal with something. At the end of the day, it’s business, and you have to get comfortable with yourself and charge people the same price. I’ll admit there are certain cases, where ok a discount may be necessary. You have to remember if you’re always doing a sale or discount that diminishes the value of what you’re trying to sell. Whether it’s family, friends, or acquaintances… regardless go with your gut and don’t fall under the pressure. Going hand and hand with the resilience topic; you must be stern on policies. Things happen but it all comes down to respect. While you’re trying to get this one client rescheduled after two attempts for the same amount of money, you could’ve had two new clients.
Objective. I’ve learned that sometimes you have to put your business first. You have to hold yourself accountable when it comes to payments, deadlines, and the effort put into your work. That discipline is what will take you to the next level. Find the balance between you, your business, and your life. I like to call it “a state of serenity”; where you’re able to complete everything you need to and know when to back off for the sake of yourself. Some people may not understand how important this is to you, but you know. You’re the one that started it. So let’s take it further than anyone could’ve ever thought.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’ll admit it; I’m young, in college, and 21. I am humbled by the amount of opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead of me. I recognize that I am just beginning my journey, and I want to learn from those who have already paved the way in the photography and studio ownership space. Some of my most valuable connections have been with seasoned people who generously share their knowledge and advice on navigating various challenges and seizing opportunities.
Currently studying in Savannah, I’ve noticed a gap in the market here. Unlike the studio spaces I was accustomed to in Atlanta, there seems to be a lack of spaces in Savannah. This observation has sparked my interest in understanding the business aspects of managing and scaling a photography studio, including the logistics behind acquiring a property for such a venture.
While I am continuously honing my photography skills and learning about different lenses and equipment, I am excited to embark on the next chapter of my journey, which involves expanding my network and making meaningful connections with fellow photographers and studio owners. I believe that collaboration is key to growth, and I am open to partnering with like-minded individuals who share a passion for photography and a vision for success.
On one hand, I seek guidance and mentorship from established professionals to help me make informed decisions and avoid pitfalls as I pursue forward. On the other hand, I am equally eager to offer support and knowledge to those who are just beginning their photography journey. I want to create a full-circle moment where the knowledge I gain from others is passed on to those who may have just picked up a camera today.
If you’re a fellow photographer, studio owner, or someone enthusiastic about photography and entrepreneurship, I’d love to connect with you! Whether you’re in Atlanta, Savannah, or beyond, feel free to reach out to me via email, direct message on social media, or a simple text. You can find all my contact details on my website.
Contact Info:
- Website: shotsbyjcmill.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: shotsbyjcmill
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuamatthews02/
Image Credits
All taken by SHOTSBYJCMILL.
