Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamaal Simpson.
Jamaal, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
As a child, did you ever say “when I grow up, I want to be a journalist?” Well, I never said I wanted to be a photographer lol. In my early 20’s, I seemed to always have one of those wind-up cameras in my hand. Making up silly poses for people to do but it never clicked that maybe I had a passion for film.
Fast forward a few years, my mom buys me a Fuji s700 for Christmas. I just knew I was ready to take over the world. In my head, a new glamorous camera meant I was NOW a “photographer”… wrong! One day, I’m watching my uncle, affectionately known as “Jr” work an event. I start asking questions and following his every move trying to soak up some knowledge. He noticed my shiny new s700 and took me under his wing. Most events he booked, I worked with him. To look back, my pictures were HORRIBLE lol, but it was all about getting my feet wet and building my confidence. That type of real-world experience and education is priceless.
One day, a couple years later, I was asked by my cousin to photograph his wedding. It was a last minute thing and I was hesitant. I had graduated from the Fuji s700 to a Nikon DSLR but I wasn’t ready to take on a wedding ALONE! But, nonetheless, I agreed. Long story short, the best man at the wedding, my cousin’s best friend was killed approx a week after the big day. I was floored when I heard the news. I hadn’t even finished editing the pictures and he was gone. I happened to take a photograph of the 2 of them [groom and best man] together that is cherished to this day. It was then I realized the “value” of a picture, a moment in time. I knew that if this meant I could create lasting memories, I was all in. My cousin told me how much he loved that picture and deemed me “Snapz” and I have not stopped “snapping” since.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
A smooth road… hmmmmm, I would definitely say no to that, lol!
The main struggle is struggling with myself during troubled times… “am I good enough”, “should I give up”, “will people really pay ME for this?” It becomes a volatile mixture of self-doubt and fear. At the end of the day, you must stay faithful and prayed up. Find ways to stay encouraged and KNOW that with your passion and the effort behind it, the only question is, how far WILL you go. You may fail, however, as long as the failure creates a lesson that you learn from, it only makes you stronger.
Finances are a struggle in any business. Photography is all about equipment and the use of it. You can create great photographs with minimal equipment, so this is not to say I have to have the best to be the best. However, as with ANY business, you must stay current and competitive with demands. I can’t be a competitive wedding photographer still using that Fuji s700. So the struggle is creating ways to stay relevant in a somewhat watered down industry so that you can make enough profit to reinvest in the business. While maintaining a normal life and keeping all other bills paid.
Lastly, I would say the development and constant upgrades to the modern cell phone ARE THE DEVIL, lol! Everyone with a cell phone now is a “photographer.” The filters and light compensation on these things are amazing. They have definitely made it harder for the everyday studio photographer to succeed. Not only does it provide a nice picture but the turn around is instant. And, social media is the only thing people care about so turn around is key. But, I think there is still a great demand for the professional photographer. If you’re not tough enough to overcome obstacles or challenges, you’re not built to be a business owner.
Please tell us about Jamaal Raushan Photography.
Jamaal Raushan photography officially began in 2010. Though it has been through a couple name changes, the basis has remained the same; I provide excellent customer service. Running off of about 70% word of mouth, I rely on past and current customers to be the sounding board.
I pride myself on delivering Excellent quality work at affordable prices. I want everyone to walk away feeling as though they were treated amazing, had a professional team carry out the event or photo shoot and would absolutely recommend us to anyone needing photography.
I specialize in events and weddings. The one thing I am known for is my personality. That works to my advantage during events. I get to talk and joke with guests and/or wedding parties. Makes people feel comfortable as if a friend took their pictures rather than “some guy with a camera.” The personality and humble spirit are what sets me apart. I am constantly on my own case about quality, friendliness, professionalism, creativity and overall experience. That motivation to provide the best in all those categories sets me apart from others.
I am most proud of how far I’ve come. Just to see the development of quality and my style over the past 8 years is amazing. That’s why I settled on my name as the company name… Jamaal Raushan! It’s me, my heart, my investment, my baby. One thing most don’t know is that the logo “JR” was also chosen to pay homage to that uncle/mentor “Jr”, I told you about earlier. Thanks, Unc!
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
The only things I can say I would’ve done differently are…
1. Started earlier. I see kids taking photography classes and picking up cameras in grade school and high school. Had i had that type of head start or focus I would be so far ahead of where I am now.
2. Piggybacking off #1, had I known sooner, photography would’ve been my focus when selecting schools for college. I went for business….. blah! Instead, I would have gone straight for the arts, concentrating on photography.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jamaalraushan.com
- Phone: 708-441-9713
- Email: Jamaal.simpson@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamaal.raushan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamaalRaushan/
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
