Today we’d like to introduce you to James Ly.
Hi James, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My first introduction to shooting videos was in my film class back in high school. I fell in love with shooting and editing video work by filming the sports highlights for basketball and football. I liked to go on YouTube to copy transitions and effects and implement them into my highlights.
While at Georiga State University, I pursued my passion for filmmaking and decided to get a degree in Film and Media. In my free time, I would document photos/videos of my roommates and friends on my iPhone 7, which later sparked my interest in photography. We would travel around Atlanta’s hotspots and hidden gems to shoot.
By 2020, I invested in my first DSLR camera, the Canon EOS 90D. I honed in on advancing my photography skills while implementing techniques I picked up from film school. I enjoyed shooting portraits, so I would ask around to see if anyone wanted to model. Funny enough, one unorthodox but effective way I found models is through dating apps. I would message people on dating apps if they were interested in modeling and wanted to shoot. We would set up a time and place to meet; it helped me better compose my shots and engage with the models’ posing.
After a year of portrait photography, I finally got the interest of my friends, who wanted to pay me to take their graduation photos. It was the first time I realized I could earn money doing what I love. The bulk of the money I’ve gained from my shoots, I reinvested in buying better gear to handle the workload of my photoshoots. I have been thankful to have had the opportunity to document many graduations and weddings over the past couple of years.
In 2022, I received a DM on Instagram from a photographer asking if I wanted to join a meetup with other photographers. I was interested and decided to see what it was all about. The community event was where artists (specifically photographers) could network, shoot, and share their work. Over the year, the photography community, known as ATL Shooters, has grown significantly. I had the opportunity to film some of our events and have them posed on their main account. I am also grateful to all the photographer friends I’ve made through these meetups that support my photography/videography journey.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The beginning stages of my photography and videography journey were pretty rough. For a time, I would equate likes and follows on my Instagram account to my value. Comparing myself to others was not healthy. The longer I stayed in the space, I learned that it is better to develop longer-lasting relationships with those who care about your work.
However, the hardest part is finding your voice within the space. I changed my style throughout the years to reflect on how I want my work to be perceived. As much as I like looking at trends, I won’t engage with what is popular because I want my work to be timeless (and candid, if possible). I take some notes from film photography by replicating the process and tones to capture something that will last.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a freelance hybrid shooter for photography & videography. I specialize mainly in portraits, graduation, and weddings/events. I get excited whenever I get the chance to shoot a graduation or wedding because I feel honored to be the one to document a crucial moment in that person’s life.
What sets me apart from most people in my field is that I excel in both photography & videography when most only have a concentration in one. This might be due to my academic pursuits and fascination with learning about the ins and outs of my profession. Having fun studying the different niches of cinematography and photography helps me combine aspects in my work.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
You can find my Instagram @jameslyphoto or my website at www.jameslyphoto.com.
Contact Info:
- Email: jameslyphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jameslyphoto/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JamesLy1999
Image Credits
PM Güell, Karina Teichert, Midori Cseh
