We recently connected with Gwendolyn Houston-Jack and have shared our conversation below.

Gwendolyn, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

As a portrait artist/photographer, it’s easy, in my opinion, to lose your creativity. Every portrait session is unique, but the task can feel the same after a few sessions. I decided I needed to find my creative edge again and push myself to new limits. In 2021, I started a personal project called “Every Kind of People.” The goal of this project was not only to create portraits of people as they are where they are but to do so with film.

I hadn’t used film in years. If I recall correctly, the last year I used film for any photo image was in 2006, and it was a Kodak Advantix camera. So, I didn’t own any film cameras, and I didn’t quite remember how even to load a film camera. This was going to be returning to my roots and using all my photo knowledge. The luxury of digital photography is fixing most mistakes later. Film is not so forgiving. Film is also a set number of frames, which means committing to the moment when you click the shutter.

Once I secured a few film cameras (I admit to being slightly addicted to buying every film camera I found), I had an open call for faces. I was willing to travel to different areas to create these images, so this wasn’t a small project. Along with creating these film images, I interviewed each person. I was going to share the person’s story in film and words. This is the beauty of being creative in more than one format.

Overall, the project was a success. I’m working on part two for 2022. There were a few hiccups, like a roll of film being lost by the print lab, and there’s no hurt like losing a roll of film. I’m excited to be using film again, and I may very well add this to my regular photography services.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My name is Gwendolyn, but people call me G. It’s so much easier that way. Lord knows it was hard for a six-year-old to get three syllables out every single time, and I’ve noticed it’s hard for adults too. I LOVE my name (my dad named me), so cutting it short to “Gwen” is not acceptable. So why does G work? “G” works because it sounds friggin’ awesome.

Who am I? I’m a creative looking to change the world, one person at a time. My purpose in life is to create an environment focused on inclusion, well-being, and inner peace where persons can show up authentically. As a storyteller, I capture the souls of those who sit before me and celebrate the individual that they are. As a portrait artist, I provide intentional solutions for my clients.

I received my first camera as a kid for the holidays, but I didn’t seriously consider photography as a career until 2012. I was underemployed and trying to figure out how to make ends meet. The idea of working two part-time jobs was not an option, so I picked up the camera to make a few extra bucks. It worked, and I created G Photography as a business.

As a portrait artist, I focus on decorating my clients’ homes with family images they love. I offer framed wall art, metal prints, canvas prints, and professionally designed albums. And to ensure my clients enjoy their photographic images immediately, I professionally install all the framed wall art.

My photography is about celebrating self and family and making it easy. Many people get frustrated with booking a photo session and feeling confident they will get their money’s worth. At G Photography, I take the lead on the photo session idea and create memorable portrait sessions that allow my clients to enjoy the moment and the memories.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I’m on a mission to help others celebrate their authentic selves and definitions of beauty. As a kid, I didn’t see myself often in magazines except for Essence and Jet. Even then, the idea of what was considered beautiful or handsome was limited. I want young and old to see themselves as the stunning works of art that they are.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

I’m a bookworm, but I have a few books that I highly recommend for all small business owners. I recognized my issue of charging what I’m worth, so I love “You Are A Badass At Making Money” by Jen Sincero. I’m in business to change the world, but that takes money. I also recommend “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz. This will change how profitable a company is! Lastly, I suggest “The Celebrity CEO” by Ramon Ray. It’s about building a personal brand and a community.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gphotographybyg.com
• Instagram: @gphotographybyg
• Facebook: @gphotographybyg
• Linkedin: @gwendolynrhoustonjack
• Twitter: @blackpowerbunny
• Youtube: G Photography by G
• Other: Pinterest: @gphotographybyg

Image Credits
Gwendolyn Houston-Jack of G Photography