Today we’d like to introduce you to James Alexander.
James, 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 my photography business at the insistence of my friends. We traveled together on several occasions, and I was always given the role of “photographer.” If you needed your angles captured or a nice landscape shot, you’d tell James to snap the picture. Eventually, after we returned from our second trip to Jamaica, I decided to take the plunge. I purchased a DSLR camera with zero technical knowledge of photography. YouTube was and still is, my go-to source for learning new photography tips & tricks. After a bit of studying, I started shooting for free and eventually launched Young Urban Professionals Media to provide photography and video services for people in the Houston area. Fun fact: my 1st paid gig was actually a free photo shoot for Digg Deep Fitness & Nutrition; Joy Diggs (the owner) liked my work so much that she insisted I be paid. That was amazing for me, & now every event/job is like a new problem that I must work to solve. It’s constantly challenging & rewarding.
Has it been a smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road because I didn’t know ANYTHING about photography. I know more than we started, but I’m far from an expert. However, the technical side has been much easier versus the business side of things. When money is involved, you must clearly communicate what the client’s money is, and is not, paying for. Clear expectations & contracts can protect everyone involved and minimize headaches. There’s also the part of having a logo created, getting business cards, starting the LLC, managing my social media presence, building a website and simply marketing the business. I take each pothole and struggle as a learning opportunity.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Young Urban Professionals Media provides video and photography services. Most of my work has been event photography, but I don’t limit myself to only events. I’m most proud of the satisfaction my clients derive from my work…because when someone comes to me, I offer my “eye” for video/photography, which is unique & different from anyone else.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Houston is a great place to start in photography because there are so many people. With a growing population, you’ll find a niche to fit into quite nicely.
Pricing:
- $75/hour with a 2-hour minimum (price includes lighting adjustments – no Photoshop)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.youngurbanpros.com
- Phone: 6016956994
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/yupyoungurbanpros
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/youngurbanpros1
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston 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.
