We recently connected with Jawuan Williams and have shared our conversation below.
Jawuan , looking forward to hearing all of your stories 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?
I learned photography from the person that inspired me to join this industry in the first place, my older cousin Eric. Eric was the family photographer for a long time before his passing in 2020. It all started when he would send me different books and videos to learn the basics of a camera. Although at the time I didn’t have one to physically practice with, I was able to learn the ins and outs of a camera. When it comes to what I could’ve done to speed up my learning process, the answer is easy, stop procrastinating. The most essential skill to learn about photography is understanding the Exposure Triangle (ISO, Shutter Speed, and Aperture). I personally believe that you can’t call yourself a photographer without knowing these three things. Going back to my previous statement, I would say that procrastination is something that slowed me down but also stood in the way of learning more. But I can say that is something that I continuously work on.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Jawuan Williams and I am ReelWuan Studios. Honestly, it all started from watching sports and seeing how different shots captured the eyes of many. I’ve always had a passion for the sports industry and wanted to do anything I could to get in. After beginning my tenure at Tennessee State University, I decided to take the initiative and learn more about photography. I pondered on the thought of minoring in Photography but I never actually picked it up. While I was in college, I met two photographers/videographers who had already established themselves on campus, Kola, and Justin. They took me under their wing and taught me the ins and outs of the business. After a year and a half of learning from them by helping with different projects they would work on, I finally decided that it was my time. My first task was to actually buy a camera. After discussing things with my dad, he told me to reach out to my cousin Eric, our family photographer. Eric sold me a camera, lens, and bag for only $200 and that set everything in motion. Simultaneously I created my brand, ReelWuan Studios, a play on words but also to represent “photos taken by a real one.”
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Support. The answer is plain and simple. Many times people only support those that are trending or well-known on social media. It is important to support the small business owners and entrepreneurs in the creating ecosystem that are trying to get their name out in the world. It can be as simple as a like, comment, share, or even suggesting them to someone in need of our talents. If we can do it for our favorite celebrities, we have to keep that same energy for the artists and creatives that are up and coming.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
One of my biggest professional goals is to work for ESPN or become a team photographer for a professional sports team. That has been my ultimate goal for a long time and I continue to strive and perfect my craft in order to achieve it. Every time I touch my camera, I feel like I’m getting one step closer to achieving my dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://reelwuanstudios.wixsite.com/reelwuanstudios
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reelwuan.studios/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jawuan.wiilams
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jawuan-williams-209ba7140/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jawuankwilliams