Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Shelley
Hi Jessica , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! What’s up? My name is Jessica, but people call me Shells! I originally started off 3 years ago after I had my daughter, Kimari. I was 9 months out of high school during the pandemic when I first found out I was pregnant with her. Being only 18 years old, I had no idea that this was going to be the plan for my life. But I had plenty of faith and trust that everything was going to be just fine. At the moment I found out, to the first year in i’ve had her, it seemed like everything stopped. Or was put on pause, as I’d say now. I had to be a mother. So anything that wasn’t beneficial for her at the moment, whether it was my dream or not, i had to put it on hold. To nurture, protect, and provide for her. Before I had Kimari, I had just started my videography business. I had internships, shadowing some of the best photographers and videographers from Atlanta, GA and networking as such. So, to put that on hold as soon as I felt like it was about to take off was- hard, to say the least. I won’t sit here and lie like my mindset was always where it was supposed to be, neither. Honestly, I didn’t always see the light at the end of the tunnel. I had my doubts, my hardships, times where I just wanted to give up as a whole. Inconsistency with my business wasn’t doing me any good. I would be invested and get sidetracked by the income that just wasn’t coming in at the moment. And, like I said before- I had to provide. Until, everything just started working out for me. Looking back at it, it always was, I just didn’t realize it going through the trails I went through at the moment. But, I’m ever so grateful that I did! I got a job at a Law Firm, Monge and Associates. I started off as a Legal Professional Assistant position to now being a Marketing Executive Assistant handling all Social Media Platforms for them. Not only them, but I also manage other Social Media Platforms for businesses such as Youth Passing League, Atl Red Devils 7on7, QB Takeover and we can’t forget about my own business! ShootsByShells Production is in full effect! Being more consistent than ever, we’re getting booked and busy, taking off this year than ever before! And there’s still more to come! When it comes down to followers, I don’t think it expresses the impact ShootsByShells honestly does. Because from the look of the eye, 170 followers on instagram isn’t anything for a small business. But the experience I give my clients makes it worth all the while. So hey, I might not have 10k followers, but if i can effect 170 people individually, sincerely, and productively… I feel like I did my part, I feel like i’m doing my purpose. All Praise to the Most High, Jesus Christ because he’s the reason why I am where I am today. All the effort, motivation, and hard work came from him, when I didn’t feel like doing it the most. So, I thank you all for reaching out to me and even allowing me to have such an amazing opportunity! I really appreciate it more than you can ever imagine.
Once again, my name is Jessica but- people call me Shells. And that’s a summary of my story. Thank you!
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?
Some struggles I had along the way were that I got pregnant at the age of 18- fresh out of high school during the pandemic. So, being that young, still growing up, but also raising, nurturing, and providing for another human being could be…. very challenging. Especially with starting a small business because the it might be my dream, it might be my passion, but- The bills still due and her needs still need to be met. And the income wasn’t there at the moment, so the process kept getting put on “pause”. “Postponed” if you may say.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in making creative highlight reels, sports reels, and engaging videos for social media platforms and/or personal use.
I’m most proud of my creative ability to set the tone of all my videos just by the song choice that’s given. My storytelling always starts with the song because i’m also musically inclined.
What sets me apart from others, I’d say is my personality. The experience that comes with the shoot. The entire process from the booking, to the in person meetings, to the final product of a video that supersedes my clients expectations. I’m very outgoing and extroverted, so I’m heavy on making a comfortable atmosphere for my clients to let loose and most importantly be themselves. Which is the best thing you can be 🙂
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
Favorite book? The Bible. (I’m being so serious lol) -like i’m not even joking!
I listen to audiobooks of the bible throughout the day, just reading scriptures and/or explaining them.
As far as resources, since I live in Atlanta, I have the advantage of meeting so many creatives in their works. Many who have mentored me, taught me, and showed me the works of how to be better and perfect my craft. The list is plentiful!
Pricing:
- Standard Promotion Reels: $125
- Highlight Sports Reels: $150
- Social Media Engagement Reels: $125
- Unedited Photos: $125
- Edited Photos: $150
Contact Info:
- Instagram: main: @smallest_charm business: @shootsbyshells
- Youtube: @jshellsss
Image Credits
@shotbybillips
