Today we’d like to introduce you to Vernetta Thomas.
Hi Vernetta, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My career journey is shaped by a childhood immersed in art, diligent work ethic, international experiences, and education. Raised amidst diverse art genres, I absorbed a deep appreciation for creativity. Despite parental advice to pursue a financially stable backup career alongside art, I chose accounting. However, years of corporate grind eventually revealed the emptiness of this path, prompting a quest for career fulfillment.
After careful deliberation, I opted for contract work, seeking the flexibility to split my time between Europe and my accounting career. Over 7.5 years, I immersed myself in the art of film photography, mastering every facet from capturing images to developing film, exploring various film types, understanding camera settings, and analyzing contact sheets. I exhibited and sold my work in galleries and diverse venues, showcasing the subjects I passionately photographed. My routine involved spending just under three months in Europe to avoid visa requirements, collaborating with fellow photographers and artists I had encountered during my travels, primarily in France. This rhythm allowed me to nurture my artistic pursuits while sustaining my professional obligations in Dallas.
In 2007, recognizing the shift towards digital photography as the industry’s future, I made a pivotal decision to return to college. With film photography gradually yielding ground to digital technology, I aimed to stay abreast of the evolving landscape and forge a sustainable career in photography. Initially, I pursued non-credit college courses for two years, culminating in a non-degreed certification in digital photography. As I grew more proficient in digital techniques, I made the commitment to further my education through four years of credited classes. During this period, I specialized in commercial photography/graphic design. Despite my academic pursuits, I maintained a full-time role as a contract accountant, taking on six-month assignments to ensure financial stability. While I continued to create, exhibit, and sale my photographic work in galleries and other venues, I recognized the need for additional income streams to support myself financially.
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?
My journey indeed reflects the reality that transitions rarely unfold seamlessly, often punctuated by challenges and uncertainties. Balancing financial stability with my passion for photography necessitated careful consideration and occasional side hustles, such as starting a tutoring business through Wyzant and serving as a substitute teacher for art and photography classes—a role that aligns perfectly with my expertise and interests. Teaching photography through summer camps at schools’ grades K-12.
Alongside my teaching and educational pursuits, I’ve continued to engage in freelance photography work, showcasing my versatility and skills. From capturing culinary creations for companies like Hardies Fresh Foods and Cozymeal to providing headshots for real estate agencies, my freelance projects have allowed me to further hone my craft and expand my professional network. My most recent pursuit is writing a book on AI and photography, how the 2 can work together.
My willingness to adapt, diversify my income streams, and persist through the inevitable challenges underscores my dedication to pursuing my passion for photography while navigating the complexities of the professional landscape.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I take an eclectic approach to producing visual art. Drawing inspiration from various sources, whether it’s other photographers’ work or my surroundings, has truly enriched my creative process. Incorporating storytelling into my photography adds depth and meaning, creating a richer experience for both myself and my audience.
Experimenting with different techniques like shooting polaroids, film, and even incorporating AI into my process shows a willingness to push boundaries and explore new possibilities in my work. Embracing innovation can lead to unique and captivating results that sets my work apart.
How do you think about luck?
Following my graduation, armed with a robust portfolio, I eagerly pursued opportunities to work as a staff photographer for ad agencies or corporations. However, I encountered a shifting landscape where staff photographer positions were increasingly scarce, with companies preferring to hire freelancers to cut costs on benefits and perks. This realization was disheartening, leading me to seek guidance from one of my professors.
Encouraged by her belief in my work, I explored the possibility of teaching photography at the higher education level. Initially, my lack of teaching experience posed challenges, with my classes being overly technical due to my background in corporate training. However, with time and observation, I honed my teaching approach, discerning the needs of my students and adjusting my instruction accordingly.
My journey into teaching photography began with a position at Collin College, teaching photography through continuing education courses. As my teaching skills developed, I gradually transitioned away from my accounting jobs to focus solely on education. Over the years, I expanded my horizons, securing a position at UNLV (University of Nevada Las Vegas), where I taught in person for 5 years until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a move back to Dallas.
Returning to Collin College, I also began teaching online classes for UNLV. Additionally, an opportunity arose to teach at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles, further enriching my teaching experience. From teaching street photography to leading summer camps for children of all ages, I’ve now dedicated 15 years to educating others in the art of photography across various educational settings.
Luck can certainly play a significant role in one’s journeys, guiding us down paths we might not have envisioned for ourselves. It appears my journey in photography has been filled with serendipitous moments that led my to teaching and inspiring others, ultimately enriching both my professional and personal life.
Teaching can be such a rewarding experience, not only for the students but also for the teacher. Sharing my passion and knowledge with others and watching them grow and succeed can be incredibly fulfilling. And it’s wonderful that teaching became a natural extension of my creative endeavors, allowing me to make a substantial living while also continuing to pursue my freelance work.
Embracing opportunities as they arise, even if they were unexpected, can lead to some of the most fulfilling experiences and achievements in life. I feel like I’ve found a balance between creating art, teaching, and freelance work, creating a rich and varied career that nourishes both my creative spirit and my livelihood.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://capturethis2.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vernettam100
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/v-t-61b6b931/
Image Credits
Vernetta Thomas
