Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Mitchell.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started doing photography as a way to get my visions out into the world faster. My background is in video production, but it can be a long process sometimes and I’m a little impatient. I began editing videos back in high school, around 2006/2007. That’s when I realized I wanted to make something out of combining digital technology with visual art.
When it came time for me to choose a major in college, I really didn’t think that videography and photography was something I could pursue. It wasn’t until two years into college that I realized it was a viable career path. So, I convinced my Dad to buy me my first camera, a Canon 7D, which was a top of the line DSLR in 2011, and I haven’t looked back since.
I’ve dabbled in all types of photography and videography. I’ve shot weddings, club nights, family events, nature, lifestyle, concerts, and everything in between. In doing all of that, I realized that I loved shooting products in a studio setting. It’s something about being able to control all the elements that I really enjoy.
I used to buy lipstick and nail polish from Dollar Tree just so I could practice my product photography and post it on Instagram. Now I’m finally seeing it pay off. It’s really a blessing to work with business owners who are just as passionate as I am about building their brands and helping others in the process.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For me, the main struggle has been turning my creativity into something that earns me a living and allows me to live comfortably. I would love to see the day when creative artists are just as respected in their fields as doctors and lawyers and bankers.
I think the social perception of a starving/struggling artist is something that weighs on me a lot. I struggle between going full force with my passion and my creative gifts versus paying my bills.
I find that people don’t look at creative work as actual work. The term “content creator” now embodies a wide variety of people, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But I do think that artists still deserve their shine. The creative process is not something to be rushed or posted or liked. It’s something that comes from within that I tap into every time I do a shoot. It’s not a quick post, it’s thoughtful, sometimes it’s spiritual. A lot of my struggle is getting people to understand that part.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My photography work is bold and colorful with a hint of edginess. I specialize in product photography, specifically for beauty and wellness brands, but I’m open to anything that inspires me.
I think I’m known for my studio work. It’s what I worked the hardest at learning and I believe it really shows. I am constantly learning how to get better at studio photography, but I can definitely say that I love where I’m at right now, skills-wise.
I’m most proud of the shoots that I’ve done with people who like my style of work. I’m all for extra and color and fun. I love clients who match that energy.
I think the main thing that sets me apart from others is my savviness. If I have a vision in my head for how I want to shoot something, I’m going to figure out how to make it happen. I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty to get the shot.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love that this city sets so many examples of Black excellence. Growing up here, I’ve always seen Black Women and Men in positions of power, running their own businesses, supporting themselves off of their creative gifts, and showing others how to do it too. I always looked forward to when I could contribute to the culture that this city has created.
The thing I like least is the ITP vs OTP drama. I was born and raised here and I hate that perception of you’re not “from here” if you don’t live within the city limits. I’m just gonna leave it at that because I know this discussion can get very heated.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@juicetheory.co
- Website: www.juicetheory.co
- Instagram: instagram.com/juicetheory.co
Image Credits
Personal Photos – Photographer: Darlene Desmangles
