We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jamie Kang. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jamie below.

Jamie, appreciate you joining us today. Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?

If I could go back in time, I would do things the same all over again.

I started my business in the year 2020, right in the midst of COVID. I was very fortunate in having the most supportive parents. I was living in a renovated garage attached to a property my parent’s owned but did not reside at. They allowed me to stay rent free during this time. (Reflecting back, there have been multiple successful businesses that started in a garage.) I was also motivated and refreshed from not having to go in to work everyday. COVID really allowed me to hone in on my skills and goals.

When I decided to start my business, I felt that I had gained enough knowledge and experience from previous jobs to start something on my own. I feel, even to this day, that everything fell in to place at the right time. I had to experience what I experienced – my losses and wins – in order to be able to do exactly what I dreamed of doing. I knew in my heart that I wanted to be a successful beauty photographer and I did just that. I also was able to practice consistently in both my photography and retouching skills during this time. I spent hours editing and planning out shoots, I also drastically reduced partying on the weekends and other non beneficial activities to continue working towards my goals. I never gave up and believed in myself throughout the whole process.

Currently, I am working full time at SKKN By Kim as the Studio Retoucher and Photographer. I am literally doing exactly what I envisioned myself doing. I also have kept my freelance business going on the side, and it’s been busier than ever. I am forever grateful to be living this life doing what I love!

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.

Hi all!

My name is Jamie Kang and I am a Professional Photographer and Retoucher! I started off going to one of the best design schools, Art Center College of Design, at the age of 19. From here, I was surrounded by peers – people who understood me and motivated/inspired me to be the best me. I graduated and was immediately chosen to work at Mattel, Inc. at my grad show, which showcased my senior project. This was the beginning of my retouching journey. I then worked for a creative agency until COVID; then during lockdown, I used that time to focus on myself and my business. There was no looking back after that!

I now work for Kim Kardashian as a Photographer and Retoucher.
I am so proud that I am able to offer both photography and retouching services. I don’t know a lot of photographers who choose to do both. But, I have learned from the best and have kept evolving and growing as an artist. My skills and talents combined can produce quality work equivalent to that of an agency.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist/creative is that I am getting paid to do something that I love, every day. My work brings me a great sense of joy and accomplishment. I truly believe that these things are important in fueling a healthy mentality and positive mindset throughout my life.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I don’t necessarily have a singular goal driving my creative journey. However, I do know that my goal in life is to simply be a healthy individual living a life of no regret, and accomplishing and conquering all the goals and dreams I have for myself.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jamiekangphoto.com
• Instagram: @jamiekangphoto
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kang-2b1394b4/

Image Credits
Photographer – Jamie Kang Model – Abbe Druery Agency – Ford Models HMUA – Haley Baas