We were lucky to catch up with Jose Carlos recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jose, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
My purpose as a creative came from years of honing my craft, and constantly searching for meaning in my work. I’ve only recently discovered the true meaning in my path as a portrait photographer, It took a lot of fortitude in overcoming all the obstacles I came across just to get to where I am now. Some of those obstacles being feelings of unworthiness, indecisiveness, overthinking, social awkwardness, self doubt, amongst other personal mindset blocks that hindered my growth. On top of that, learning how to manage a business has been no small feat. Once I got to a point where I learned how to navigate those obstacles, I was able to focus more on what my purpose was in photography.. in life, truly.
Now, I dedicate my work to connecting with people and capturing the story of their legacy through portraits. That may sound like a cliché that you’ve heard many portrait photographers say.. but I take it one step further by realizing that the portrait experience I create not only captures their essence in that moment in time, but also helps those I connect with to heal. It might sound crazy, because there is no medicine being prescribed by a Doctor, no Shaman guiding them through a psychedelic mind-altering experience, and no Monk teaching the ways of The Buddha to reach enlightenment. But what there is, is connection with another human being — in a safe space that is free of judgement. Where only compassionate communication exists. I believe the portrait experience I offer can be very empowering for my Clients. I create photographs that allow them to see themselves in a new light. Portraits help many people find confidence in themselves they were never before able to access. These photos are something to look back on in reflection of where they were in that particular place in their life. It serves as a reminder of how far they have come.
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?
In my portrait work, my focus is to cultivate a sense of togetherness with everyone I photograph. I want to continue challenging myself to break through any hindrances in my life that will allow me to cultivate growth both personally and in my portrait work. As part of that, this year I plan to start working on personal projects that will allow my curiosity to dive deeper into connection and storytelling. Through this, I want to find more ways of giving back and shining light on communities that have a story to tell.
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?
I think one of the best qualities I’ve cultivated is the ability to be resilient. This has allowed me to break through challenging barriers time and time again. Curiosity is an inherent trait that I proudly carry. It allows me to look at the world differently, explore the unknown of what interests me, and ask out of the box questions that I am genuinely excited to know the answers to. The last quality I want to share is that I have the courage to do things that terrify me, with the intention of overcoming my fears and coming out a more well-rounded man. All three of these qualities are an incredible combination that have allowed me to follow the path of learning how to operate a camera, light any scene, and communicate with my Clients with confidence and wisdom.
My advice to those who are early in their own journey is to always be curious. If you’re doing something that excites you, you’re on the right path. Continue to explore, and push past any fear blocks that WILL come up. These obstacles come up for a reason — there is a lesson of growth attached to them. This will serve you on your journey’s pursuit.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
I do my best to circumvent overwhelm by finding a balance in my routines. Knowing that if I’m working a lot, I also have to prioritize time for myself. Rest does not equate to laziness. No guilt or shame should be attached to it. Rest is vital. You recover in rest, and work more effectively when you’re fully energized. When I feel overwhelmed, I try to slow down and take some deep breaths. I think about what is making me feel overwhelmed. What is in my control? Meaning, what can I change in order to relieve that feeling. What is not in my control? Finding acceptance in that and removing the worry that is attached to it. Beyond that, as I’m breathing, I shift the focus from my mind to my body. This helps me pay attention to how that sensation is present in my body, and how it is negatively affecting my nervous system. Overwhelm is just another feeling that comes up for a reason. I do these practices and am mindful of the feeling so that I can listen to what my body is telling me and course correct.
Moving forward, my partner and I have decided to make a big change and move out of state to Minneapolis, Minnesota this Summer to pursue our goals. While she continues her education to get her Doctorate in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, I will continue to grow my photography business in the Twin Cities. I’m excited to service a whole new clientele, and explore the city and surrounding areas. My other goal is to take opportunities to educate other photographers and aspiring photographers alike
Contact Info:
- Website: josecphotography.com
- Instagram: josec_photography
- Facebook: /josecphotography
Image Credits
Jose Carlos
