Today we’d like to introduce you to Mercedes Johnson
Hi Mercedes, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Anyone who knows me would tell you that I have always been a creative person. When I was younger there wasn’t a time you wouldn’t catch me drawing or doodling on something. I was eager to learn about all different kinds of artistic mediums, from acrylic painting to digital art and eventually photography! I joined yearbook in middle school and loved it, this led to me being gifted my first Canon T5 in middle school. The first thing I did is take pictures of my friend on the side of the house, the photos were awful, but this never stopped me from continuing to take pictures. I quickly realized I loved taking photos of people. There are so many unique personalities out there with stories no one knows about. I decided to create my business with values that stand on photographing people for who they truly are while providing photos they can be proud of !
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Far from smooth is what I would say, but I kind of like it that way. I don’t think I would have as much drive or passion for what I was doing if I never faced difficulty along the way. It has made me have an undoubtedly extreme connection to my business in ways I can’t even explain. Finding myself and growing with my work has been a steep up-hill battle. I still would say the path has bigger challenges ahead, but I’ve toughend my skin from the previous obstacles that the future ones seem a little more scalable.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a professional photographer serving the North Dallas area, who has been making the transition to personal brand photography! My services included seniors & couples/creatives, but I recently have caught intrest in aiming to help small businesses/brands! I strive to give people photos not only that will love, but that change their perspective on who they assumed they were in the past. I encourage each and every one of my clients to put that fear of being in front of the camera behind them and embrace who they are confidently! I take extreme pride in the fact that I have provided photos people tell me they are obsessed with, especially those who don’t usually take photos!. My experience is completely centered and creatively catered to the client, I want to be able to provide photos that attract their dream clients without sacrificing their uniqueness. No two people are alike so why would you photograph them the exact same way?
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I often listen to “Stoic Wellbeing” a podcast by Sarah Mikutel, who is a mindset and communication coach. She has changed my perspective on handling tough situations and emotions (not just in life but in my business as well!). I also love to watch Erin On Demand on YouTube! She’s an entrepreneur who has relatable and very informative information when it comes to being a woman owning her own business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mercedesjphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mercedesjphotography/
Image Credits
Photos by Mercedes J Photography
