Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jalen Sorrells. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jalen, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Like any creative endeavor, learning photography involves a lot of trial and error. When I first started photography, I stuck to what I was comfortable with, which hindered my improvement. Initially, camera settings can seem daunting, but understanding how they work together is crucial for your growth as a creative. Don’t hesitate to try something new at each shoot; you’ll never know what works until you experiment. I’ve had many shoots that didn’t go as planned in my head, yet they turned out to be some of my best work. Being creative means overcoming challenges and making the best of every situation
Jalen, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a self-taught photographer and have been shooting for about five years. I initially began photographing with a modeling organization at my college. While it started as a hobby, I quickly fell in love with photography after my first fashion show shoot. Photography allows me to not only capture memories but also showcase my unique perspective of the world. Since I started, I have always aimed to distinguish myself from other artists and develop my own style. It’s a continuous journey, but when friends and family can recognize my work, it lets me know that I’m moving in the right direction. I take pride in my growth as a creative, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without every person who has allowed me to bring their vision to life.
How did you build your audience on social media?
It’s as simple as posting. We’re in the age of social media, and as a creative, it’s one of the best tools at your disposal. Promoting yourself is just as important as creating daily posts on social media. Consider this: if you don’t share your content, how will anyone see it? It can be as straightforward as sharing old photos—anything to get your art out there!
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
When I began my business, I was still in college. Consequently, a majority of my clients were fellow students and friends from school. I made a conscious effort to promote myself on campus and even at parties to spread the word. Like anything else, overnight success isn’t guaranteed, so it’s essential to keep networking to achieve the best results.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Hoodie_Soup
- Twitter: Hoodie_Soup