Today we’d like to introduce you to Juma Mounger.
Hi Juma, It’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us. To start, could you share some of your backstory with our readers?
I never set out to become a photographer; my true passion was always in music and video production. Like many younger siblings, I admired my big brother and wanted to follow in his footsteps. His journey as an aspiring music artist drew me into the world of music production. I would quietly tag along, observing and learning. Whenever the production equipment was free, I would teach myself what I had seen, hoping to create something meaningful. This experience sparked my interest in documenting our creative process with a camera. These early experiences laid the foundation for my eventual investment in professional camera equipment. While in college and away from my hometown, I realized I had no crew or knowledge to jump into video production. I began using the camera to take photos to stay productive and justify the expensive investment. My passion for photography grew through self-study, online resources, and hands-on practice. Patience, consistent practice, and seeking mentorship have been key to my growth. Without my brother’s influence, I might have considered other careers or could have easily ended up on the streets searching for a sense of purpose. Because of him, I feel like I owe a lot of my success to his guidance. Watching his growth and milestones as a self-taught music producer, from making beats for his albums to saving money to becoming a multi-platinum-selling music producer, has been incredibly inspiring.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The early stages of my journey were anything but smooth. As a self-taught artist, I started with just a camera and limited YouTube tutorials, unaware of how expensive the necessary equipment would be. I had to discipline myself to view these costs as investments, trusting that the payoff would come later. Overcoming imposter syndrome was another major challenge, as was adapting to a career that demands strong communication and social skills despite being an introvert. As a traveling photographer, I also suffered multiple car thefts, losing thousands of dollars worth of equipment. However, these experiences taught me that true passion is hard to walk away from; it’s meant to be if you keep returning to it. Today, endless resources and online communities are available, which weren’t as accessible when I began. Equipment prices have also become more affordable, making it easier to enter this career. I also needed to pay more attention to the importance of marketing. With the power of social media, it’s much easier to connect your art with people now.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a Multimedia Marketing Specialist and Small Business Developer, I bring together my skills in portrait photography, cinematography, business management, and marketing. My mission is to empower small businesses by enhancing their online presence and fostering their growth. With a decade of experience, I am committed to guiding and uplifting talented individuals who are embarking on their entrepreneurial journey. I take immense pride in being a positive influence in my community. My goal transcends mere business operations; I aspire to leverage my expertise to help others realize their aspirations and objectives. What distinguishes me is my unwavering commitment to integrating creativity with business acumen to make a significant difference.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When finding a mentor and network, I advise establishing a robust online presence on platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase your work to a wider audience. Facebook, in particular, hosts numerous local and statewide groups dedicated to sharing work and networking, which can help you discover events and opportunities. Initially, I was apprehensive about reaching out to established photographers because their online following was intimidating. However, I found that many responded positively, demonstrating that most professionals are eager to share their knowledge if you approach them with a genuine desire to learn.
Networking within the industry has been invaluable, enabling me to connect with other professionals and collaborate on projects. Consistently delivering high-quality work that exceeds client expectations has been vital to my success, and word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients have greatly expanded my clientele.
Consistency is crucial for client growth. Even with significant milestones achieved, I stay humble and focused on continuous improvement. To maintain my passion, I invest in personal projects alongside my paid work, such as collaborating with models or supporting local businesses. My strong community connections have made this journey especially rewarding.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://khalidlamarcollection.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/khalidlamarcollection/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KhalidLamarCollection
- Twitter: https://x.com/KhalidLamarCo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KhalidLamarCollection
Image Credits
Khalid Lamar ShotByJuma Juma Mounger
