Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Thomas.
Jasmine, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I decided to begin my photography business in 2021, but I learned my skill as a high schooler. Between 2011 & 2017 I spent most of my time developing as a music recording artist. While I am still pursuing my musical art, I picked up a camera again in 2017 after completing a graduate program. Due to being in between graduating and finding work, I was able to spend time developing as a photographer. During that time in 2018, I spent 7 weeks in NYC, with my camera. That time really transformed the way I approach my craft. I returned to Houston with a different energy. I believe that trip to NYC gave me the mentality that got me to where I am today. Today I would say I move with confidence, love, and kindness.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been a smooth road. Most struggles I’ve dealt with along the way connect to me needing to learn my worth and assert my worth. The thing about creating a business in a craft that you truly love and enjoy, people can see that and will try to take advantage of you. So I’ve learned to concretely establish my boundaries and assert what I will and will not do.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I own a photography business. My business’s name, Philo Optics, derives from deciding to refer to myself as Philo early in my music journey. Philo means ‘loving one’, or ‘Beloved’. The meanings are important to me because I purposefully embody what it means to be loving or to be someone that continuously chooses to act out of love. Optics refers to the way an event or a course of action is perceived. Ultimately, the name of my business displays my intentions of working behind the camera, capturing subjects in the a light that portrays love, grace, curiosity, and creative. I specifically specialize in portrait and event photography and I am known for my timing and my keen ability to capture moments that my clients want to remember forever. My determination and my character are two things that set me apart from other photographers. In terms of my brand, I am most proud of the fact that my brand and name precede me. When I meet potential clients in person and they’re already familiar with my work and express their love and appreciation, there’s nothing else like it. I want the readers to know that it is my intention that they see my heart through my words and my art. I offer an experience where my client’s needs are listened to and met with great attention and care.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice for artists just starting out would be to remain active, stay persistent, and be consistent. I have not reached the level of success I envision for myself yet, But I know if I keep my head down and keep pushing, I will reach the level of success I deserve. I wish starting out I was more aware of the hardware and software I would need to be able to the most successful at my craft possible.
Pricing:
- $20 Deposit (always reqiured)
- Portraits – Starting at $100/h 15-20 edits
- Event – $160 flat – 2hrs
- Event – $300 flat – 3-4hrs
- Vlog – $350 flat – Half day work (4 hours)
Contact Info:
- Email: philoopticsllc@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philo.optics/
Image Credits
Jasmine Thomas (Philo Optics LLC)
