We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jules Gallatig a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jules, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally was in the basement of my parents’ house, in a darkroom I had set up myself. While my school offered a few photography classes, most of my learning came from the hours I spent down there—experimenting, making mistakes, and falling completely in love with the process. I’d lose all track of time, totally immersed in developing prints and discovering the magic of image-making. My parents were incredibly supportive, giving me the space to explore and grow. That time in the darkroom wasn’t just about learning photography—it was when I realized this was more than a hobby. I wanted this to be my life’s work.

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.

I’m a photographer who came to this path through a mix of challenge, curiosity, and rediscovery. I’ve always seen the world a little differently—partly because I’m dyslexic. School wasn’t easy, and reading never came naturally. But everything shifted when I discovered photography. For the first time, something just made sense.

I went on to study at the Rochester Institute of Technology, applying early decision and getting in. But even with that accomplishment, I struggled with confidence. By the time I graduated, I felt lost—unsure of myself, unsure of the path.

Life moved forward. I raised my kids and set photography aside for a while, but that creative spark never left. Slowly, I picked up the camera again. It wasn’t dramatic—it was quiet and steady. Then, about four years ago, I hit a turning point. I realized the dream was still alive, and I gave myself a choice: pursue it fully, or let it go. I chose to show up.

Since then, I’ve committed to this journey with everything I have. I’ve shown my work at art festivals, galleries, and local markets—saying yes to every opportunity. Early on, I started telling myself, I will see you tomorrow. That simple phrase became a promise to myself—to keep going, no matter what.

Now, every piece I create carries a piece of that journey. Photography isn’t just what I do—it’s how I find connection, meaning, and joy.

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

For me, the most rewarding part of being a photographer is discovering the magic in the world around me—those quiet details that often go unnoticed. I love capturing beautiful lines, bold colors, and the sense of hope that comes with an emerging blossom. Each image is a reminder that tomorrow is another day, full of possibility. Sharing that feeling through my work is what brings me the greatest joy.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Yes. My creative journey is driven by a deep commitment I made to myself: to finally follow the dream and not give up. For years, I started and stopped, giving up on myself when things got hard. I even threw away parts of my story because I thought I was done. But four years ago, I drew a line in the sand and said, do it now or you never will. That moment changed everything.

Since then, I’ve stayed on the ride—even when it’s been a roller coaster. I keep showing up. I keep learning. I keep asking questions and seeking out those who’ve gone before me. Along the way, I pay it forward. I encourage others who have that same dream to cross the line and just show up. That’s the mission: to honor the dream, and to help others honor theirs too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.JulesGallatig.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JulesGallatigPhotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulesGallatigPhotography

Image Credits

Image of Me – Kurt Kamka
Everything else is mine.