Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Steven Jones. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Steven, thanks for joining us today. Any thoughts about whether to ask friends and family to support your business. What’s okay in your view?

I typically approach seeking support from friends and family for my business by prioritizing relationships. Before making any requests, I ensure that I’m actively supporting their endeavors, especially if they have their own businesses. It’s crucial to me that the dynamic is not solely about taking but demonstrating my consistent and visible support for them. This way, when I do eventually ask for assistance, there’s already an established understanding that I am someone who genuinely supports and helps them.

Despite being someone who usually doesn’t ask for help, I make a conscious effort to overcome any anxieties I may have and reach out when necessary. Being Caribbean and inherently headstrong, I recognize these traits in myself and consciously deviate from my usual instincts to seek support.

The requests I make typically fall into two categories: financial assistance and referrals. Whether it’s asking for recommendations or connecting me with potential clients, I might seek assistance in broadening my network. I approach it with a straightforward ask, such as requesting them to share a GoFundMe link or inquiring if they could refer my services to anyone in their circle who might benefit.

Steven, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, I’m Steven Jones, residing in the vibrant city of New York. My primary focus revolves around crafting positive and authentic narratives, specifically highlighting the stories of Black and Brown people. Simply, I adore our community and am committed to portraying us in the most favorable light.

My journey into the world of storytelling began with a childhood dream of becoming a writer. The desire to articulate the stories residing in my mind was a driving force. While photography and filmmaking came into my life later on, they introduced me to a fresh and dynamic means of storytelling. Currently, I am engaged as a portrait photographer, collaborating with designers, models, brands, and stylists. Additionally, I delve into behind-the-scenes and documentary filmmaking.

What resonates most with me in my work is the ability to create and share stories that often remain untold. It’s a fulfilling endeavor that allows me to contribute to a more diverse and inclusive narrative landscape.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Absolutely. Looking back on my creative journey, there are indeed resources I wish I had discovered earlier. One key aspect would be understanding the power of community and networking within the creative industry. Connecting with like-minded individuals and communities has proven to be invaluable. I wish I had recognized the importance of these networks sooner. We are not on this journey alone and especially within our communities we must as Issa Rae would say network laterally with people on the same level more. It’s the best way to grow.

It’s crucial to recognize that mentorship doesn’t always come with a formal title. Your mentors don’t necessarily need to be aware that you consider them as such. If someone is willing to offer guidance, lend an ear, or provide advice, they effectively serve as a mentor. The key is to view mentorship as a reciprocal relationship – not solely about receiving guidance but also contributing support.

Avoid overwhelming your mentor; instead, consider how you can assist and extend help proactively without waiting for a request. Mentorship becomes most fulfilling when it’s a two-way street, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge, experiences, and support.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist, is telling the stories that I have stuck in my head. I have an outlet for that and it helps not only me as an artist but me as a person. Art for me is mental health.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.5amtoday.art
• Instagram: @5amtoday