Today we’d like to introduce you to Jazmyn Ray-Maynard.
Jazmyn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born in Dallas adopted and raised in Plano. I have always been very artistic, from selling paintings to doing photography and dance. When I was 17 years old, I was scouted by this company called AMTC to become a model. I am very short, 4’11”, I never thought modeling would be a possibility. But, I entered the training program AMTC was offering and trained as an actor, model and dancer. I was trained by some of the top coaches in the industry. I was then sent to Orlando, Florida to perform in front of some top VIPs and casting agents in the country. People such as the casting directors of America’s got talents, New York Film Academy, Fox and Disney.
Once I returned from my trip, I ended up with a hip injury which delayed my dance training and my planned trip to NYC to visit the New York Film Academy to pursue their Musical Theatre program. At this point in time, I had already started teaching dance at studios in the area. I auditioned to be in a musical and got cast at the dance director and double cast as a dance lead in both the teen and adult cast. I performed over 20 shows within 6 days. I later choreographed two more musicals with that theatre all before the age of 18. After graduating high school, I had gotten highly involved with modeling and dance. I walked in a few runway shows helping break the mold of what an “ideal” runway model would look like. I, later was signed with an agent as a dancer and model. Last year, I took a few trips to LA for dance, training and networking.
In spring of last year, I became the manager of a dance studio and by the fall I was directing a video concept team. Sadly, the studio had to close at the end of the year. But, the closing of the studio lead me to pick up my old love of photography. I have now started up my photography business called Jraymayphotographry. I focus on empowering others to see the beauty that is within them. I will take on clients who have little to modeling training and teaching while we shoot so not only do they get beautiful photos but they leave having learned a new skill! I still model and image consult as well as style other people but my goal is to grow an empire designed to empower others and embrace the arts! I stand as the brand as of right now working with people one on one offering my knowledge and skills to aid them in launching their own brands and companies
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
No, it hasn’t. I am dyslexic. Overcoming that has been a struggle but thanks to my mom, who took the time to teach me tips and tricks to use it to my advantage, it hasn’t held me back by much.
Also, my hip injury changed the track of my career. I got a chance to see what it was like more behind the scenes instead of being on the stage.
Lastly, when the studio closed it changed my whole world. It was my everything but it closing has allowed me to start the path of creating a new business on my own. Figuring out how to connect everything and make it a brand is still a struggle because there is a lot I want to do but that’s part of the journey!
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a model, dancer, photographer, stylist and image consultant. I can’t truly pin point what I do because I do a bit of everything but in summary, I help with taking who they are and what they love and I help them make it an aesthetic and a brand! Through that process, I share with them modeling tips and tricks and help them boost their social media.
What were you like growing up?
I have always been an outspoken, overly opinionated, outgoing person! I grew up in a very artsy home. I would spend hours drawing, dancing and singing! My dad is a drummer, so music has always been a part of my life! My mom has always been a more structured person and she helped keep me in check and organized! I have three older brothers so, I was a major tomboy. But, by the time I was in elementary school, I was madly in love with fashion and the arts.
Pricing:
- BASIC SHOOT: $75
- DELUXE SHOOT: $125
- Image consulting: $100 first meeting
Contact Info:
- Address: Photography URL: https://www.instagram.com/jraymayphotography
(In the photos below I also have short hair with shaved sides) - Email: jazmynraymay@hotmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jazmynraymay
Image Credit:
@jraymayphotography, @bellis_photography, @iansmakeup @jamie_house
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
