Today we’d like to introduce you to Janessa Gates.
Janessa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started exploring my artistic side when I was a teenager after suffering from a crippling sports injury. Not long after, I picked up my camera and I haven’t put it down since. Taking pictures became my outlet – a passion for showing others how I view the world through my lens. From street photography to capturing light reflecting off glass – the universe became my inspiration.
I got to where I am today by accepting every piece of who I am. I have failed but learned to never give up and to try harder the next time. Going through life doubting who you are is tough and that is why I decided I would not live that way.
Has it been a smooth road?
I do not believe there are smooth roads in life. Nothing is easy; you have to continuously work hard to improve yourself every single day. My biggest struggle is not only being a woman in this industry, but a “young” woman in this industry. In every role I have acquired, I have pushed forward at a fast pace. Consuming myself in my job and striving to produce my best possible work. However, I have found that age is my biggest discrimination.
When I first started out of college I was the “fan girl” on the photography set. I literally stood next to a fan and pushed a button to blow wind on the models for that “perfect” shot. Not two weeks later, I was messing around with the camera during my lunch break when the photographer asked me if I wanted to shoot. After that I wasn’t just an intern anymore, I was part of the team. Fast forward 6 months, I was one of the head photographers trusted to run major shoots.
If I could give any advice, it would be to value yourself and your talent right out of college. Step up where ever you are needed. Always ask your coworkers if they need help. You might be young but let your work speak for itself.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into your business story. Tell us more about the business.
My proudest achievement thus far was the year after I graduated from college. I was working for an international fashion designer and had the honor of shooting for Seventeen Magazine. As a 22-year-old my photographs were featured throughout a ten-page spread of Seventeen. Since I can remember, I dreamed of my photographs being printed in a major publication and have accomplished just that at such a young age. That year, I photographed various runway shows and large-scale fashion shoots, including New York Fashion Week.
That same year, I collaborated on a campaign called “This is Why I’m Fabulous”- a nation-wide model movement in search of plus-sized women to embrace their figure. The campaign embodied the reality of women in their true form – confident and self-assured in who they are.
After I left the fashion industry, I entered the world of Hospitality. I worked with an inspiring photographer, Leigh Loftus, who taught me to be a confident woman in this business. She took a chance on me and saw my talent from day one. We worked with all the major restaurant groups and hotels including: Loews Hotel, London House, Godfrey, Big Onion Group, 50/50 Group, and so many more. I met wonderful people and learned how to take control of my career.
As of now, I currently work for Prodigious’ photography studio that partners with Leo Burnett. To see my lifestyle, work and travel follow me on Instagram @janessagates_.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I found a few networking companies in Chicago and attended there events. I would recommend always putting yourself out there and not being afraid to get outside your comfort zone.
Contact Info:
- Email: janessagatesphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janessagates_/
Image Credit:
Morgane Le Haziff, Megan Bruggemans, Jan Salazar, Daniella Gomez, Janessa Gates, Kelly Gates
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