Hidden Gems: Meet Joi A Pearson of Joi Pearson Photography, Joistik and Red Eagle Books

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joi A Pearson.

Hi Joi A, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Hampton, Virginia, and I am a proud graduate of Hampton University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. After graduation, I relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where I currently reside. My early career included work in sales, management, modeling, and as a personal assistant, but I ultimately decided to pursue my lifelong passion for photography full time.

Growing up, I was fortunate to have both of my parents present at every major milestone in my life. That experience deeply shaped how I value family and legacy. When my son, Brenton, was born in 2010, I knew I wanted to give him the same sense of presence and intentionality. I picked up a camera shortly after, and I have never looked back. Today, I am a full-time photographer with over 15 years of experience, specializing in corporate events, red carpet coverage, and visual storytelling.

My work in event photography and red carpet media led me to co-host a morning radio show, *Michael and Joi in the Morning*, alongside Michael McFadden. Over the course of two years on air, we interviewed more than 1,500 guests and live-streamed the majority of our shows. As live streaming platforms like Periscope emerged, I recognized the growing demand for a more efficient way to broadcast across multiple platforms—an insight that led me to invent the Joistik®, a device designed to live stream or record on multiple platforms and devices simultaneously. “Stick to what you do best and let the Joistik® do the rest.”

Committed to growth as both a business owner and mentor, I earned a Certification in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell University and hold additional certifications through the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council for Joi Pearson Photography and JoiStik®. I am also honored to be a recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Service Award for my community service and philanthropic work through The Pearson Academy.

My corporate event photography has taken me around the world, including Thailand, the Philippines, and Africa through a mission trip. Three years ago I was asked to become a Getty Images contributor. In addition to photography, I am the creator of the children’s book series “Sylah and Friends”, inspired by my daughter, Sylah, and my son, Brenton.

In 2025, after the passing of my Mother whom I had been her caregiver for the last 5 years I authored “How to Prepare for the Inevitable: A Compassionate Journal”, created to support individuals navigating the emotional journey of preparing for the transition of a parent or loved one. Preparing for loss is one of life’s most profound experiences—there is no manual, no class, and no roadmap. This journal was created to walk alongside those facing that reality with honesty, compassion, and grace.

Across all of my ventures — including JoiStik®, Red Eagle Books, and my photography brand — my mission is rooted in impact, education, and legacy. I am currently working toward opening The Pearson Academy, a school designed to teach creatives how to transform their talents into profitable, purpose-driven businesses that create lasting generational change.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
A smooth road? Not even close. But an enjoyable journey? Without question.

Becoming an entrepreneur — especially a full-time one — forced me to develop thick skin, resilience, and a mindset that refuses to quit. I learned quickly that “winning” looks different for everyone, and for me, it has always meant growth, purpose, and staying true to myself, even when the path felt uncertain.

I’ve faced my share of challenges, and they showed up differently in every season and every role I stepped into.

As a photographer, I started without a watermark or logo, which meant my work was often taken without credit. It was a hard lesson, but one I corrected quickly — and it taught me the importance of protecting what you create.

As an inventor, I didn’t have a community of other inventors to lean on. I simply believed in my idea and jumped straight into selling. Looking back, I would have slowed down and made sure my foundation was solid — my business license, EIN, provisional patent, trademark, and website — before going to market. That experience taught me the value of preparation just as much as passion.

As an author, I learned the power of writing consistently. Getting thoughts out of my head and onto paper — without judgment— created clarity. Once it was all there, I could refine, release what didn’t belong, and give space to what needed to grow.

And as an influencer, I’ve learned that the most important thing you can be is yourself. But authenticity requires commitment. Online, on radio, and on television, people connect with who you are long before they connect with what you offer. Even when you’re not selling a product, you are showing up as the brand. Consistency, honesty, and integrity matter — always.

None of this has been easy. But it has been real. And I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Joi Pearson Photography, Joistik and Red Eagle Books?
I am a Photographer, an Author, and an Inventor but more than anything, I am someone who strives to walk in purpose. My work began in Corporate Event Photography, where I became known for capturing the “money shot,” the moment that tells the whole story. Over time, God expanded my vision. That expansion led me to invent the Joistik®, shifting my focus toward live streaming and helping others not only show up online, but learn how to monetize their voice and their message.

I wrote “Monetize Your Livestream” and “How to Prepare for the Inevitable: A Compassionate Journal” out of obedience to what I felt called to share. My Photography, the books and my Invention have opened doors I never could have imagined, allowing me to teach, speak, and serve audiences across the country. Each opportunity has been a reminder that when you steward your gifts well, God will always multiply them.

I take deep pride in the fact that throughout every business I’ve built, I have remained anchored in my values, my faith, and my integrity. The tough seasons came and they were real but I never allowed them to steal the dreams God placed in my heart. I move forward by setting goals with intention, I reach for them with discipline and tenacity, and once I do, I set new ones; always believing there is more growth ahead.

What matters most to me is knowing that I live in a way that honors God and makes my parents, my children, my family and friends proud. Every day, I try to give my best to each hour God entrusts to me. That commitment is what allows me to rest peacefully at night.

I keep a note on my mirror that asks, “What did you do today to make yourself proud?” My prayer and my practice is to answer that question honestly and positively every single day.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Mentorship and networking have played a huge role in my growth. What’s worked best for me is focusing on alignment over access, seeking out people whose values, character, and consistency reflect where I’m trying to go. I always ask God first!
This may sound simple, but it’s foundational for me. I prayed for mentors who would stretch me, not just celebrate me. Sometimes the answer came in the form of a person; other times it came through a season, a book, or even correction I didn’t want but needed.

I’ve learned to lead with service and curiosity rather than a pitch. Almost every meaningful mentorship relationship I’ve had started with service, volunteering my skills, showing up, adding value, or simply being consistent. When people see your heart and your work ethic, they often open doors without you having to force them. Some of my strongest relationships started by simply adding value, asking thoughtful questions, and respecting people’s time. Networking works best when it’s rooted in genuine connection, not transactions.

Overall, I’ve learned that mentorship doesn’t always have to be formal, and networking is really about building trust and relationships before you need them. When you show up authentically and prepared, the right doors tend to open naturally.

Proverbs 18:16 KJV – 16 “A man’s gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.”

Contact Info:

• Email: info@itsjoi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ubringmejoi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joi.amelia.pearson/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JoiStik
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/@itsjoiapearson

Image Credits
Brian Christian Photography my Headshot, the photo with me and my children in black and cream and the Michael and Joi photo