Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Bingham.
Justin, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I originally began taking pictures on an old iPhone of mine circa 2015. After realizing that I had a passion for capturing images and telling stories through my photography, I began taking secular classes in high-school, and these courses taught me the basics and fundamentals of not only using a manual camera but also composing art.
After winning awards and participating in competitions with my art in high school, I began to shoot more regularly once I graduated. Ever since then, I’ve continued working, learning, and honing my craft along with meeting new artists, models, and creatives in the Dallas area. At this point, I run a consistent and growing photography business that specializes in portraits, street, and fashion photography
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
To be completely honest… no. In the beginning, I didn’t know how to use social media and other resources to effectively brand and market myself… so even though I was working and creating content it didn’t have any traction with any particular audience due to a lack of exposure. However, I did some research, started creating more and better content, and began leveraging my Instagram account to reach a more broad and loyal audience. And so far I’ve had awesome results! I’ve had the privilege of working with a few local clothing brands, talented models and photographers… all of which have in some way made me a better photographer and businessperson.
Also, when I was beginning my journey of becoming a photographer, I faced great struggle when it came to inspiration and individuality. There would be times where my drive and motivation would waver. Often times people want gratification instantly… I was guilty of this. If my shots or shoots didn’t turn out how I wanted, I would get impatient and upset. However, dedicating myself to learning and honing my craft did away with this obstacle.
Developing my own style is an ongoing process as well. It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying others under the guise of “drawing inspiration”. But I don’t want to just be another photographer. I want to stand out as my own person and artistic mind. This has been a balancing act, but as time goes on I can feel and see myself developing my own expressive style.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a photographer and creative director. I specialize in portrait and fashion photography. I love working with people to capture and portray their essence in a way that is both flattering, and engaging… I want people to intimately understand the subjects of my images, and I think I do a pretty good job of making that possible.
I’m most proud of the fact that I have been able to build and market my business all by myself and at a young age. A lot of people don’t find or begin to pursue their purpose until much later in life, so I’m grateful for the fact that I’ve been able to find something I love doing, and that I’ve been fortunate enough to be in a position where I can devote a substantial amount of my time and energy toward my work.
I feel that my aesthetic based on artistic vision and background allows me to stand out from others. I grew up being exposed to all types of art whether it be in the form of a painting, a piece of literature, music, a film… anything. Also, I’ve always been a natural learner and thinker, and those qualities allowed me to find and draw inspiration from a wide range of sources… and I believe this is present in my work. I love shooting different subjects, in different settings, and from alternative, thought-provoking perspectives.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve been blessed with quite a bit of wonderful supporters and mentors over the years. First and foremost, my family and friends. They’ve always supported me and offered praise, constructive criticism and help when needed. A close family friend bought me my first camera, a large portion of my friends have been my models and have even promoted my work on various social media platforms and for that, I am forever thankful.
Also, I will always remember and remain grateful for my high school photography teacher – James Kemp. He showed me how intellectual and artistic photography can be by exposing me to amazing visual artists such as Gregory Crewdson, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Vivian Maier, and Peter Beste all of which I’ve drawn great inspiration from.
Pricing:
- I charge $100 for photoshoot planning/consultation, a 90 minute photoshoot, and editing services.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 2145168596
- Email: jmbingham2000@gmail.com
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