Today we’d like to introduce you to RJ Flemister.
Hi RJ, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My business journey started back in junior year when I took a photography class. I was doing the best in the class at the time, and that gave me confidence that this could be more than just a hobby. From there, I started taking on small shoots for friends and family, experimenting with videos, and learning as I went.
What started as just a passion for capturing moments turned into a full-blown pursuit of helping people and brands tell their stories. Over time, I expanded my services, invested in better equipment, and sharpened my skills—not just creatively, but with a business mindset.
Now, I run my business with purpose, combining creativity and strategy to deliver high-quality work while staying true to my faith and values. Every step, from that first photography class to where I am now, has shaped how I show up: fully committed, always growing, and focused on creating impact.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Over the years, I faced multiple setbacks that tested my resilience. Hurricane Beryl hit, and I lost everything. On top of that, I lost my storage unit full of equipment because I couldn’t keep up with the payments.
Then came 2020 in Washington State, where I grew up. Everything shut down, and the 12 schools I serviced—privately owned—10 of them closed permanently. At that point, I didn’t have the capacity to continue the business where I was, and it felt like starting over was my only option. That’s when I decided to take a big leap and bring my business to Houston, Texas, starting fresh.
Through all of it—the failures, the losses, the uncertainty—I learned resilience, patience, and how to rebuild stronger. Each challenge shaped how I run my business today, giving me the perspective to face obstacles and keep moving forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I run a photography and videography business that focuses on capturing moments, creating visuals, and telling stories that connect with people. I specialize in school photography, portraits, event coverage, and even 360 photo booth experiences. Over time, I’ve expanded into graphic design, video production, and content creation, so I can help clients bring their vision to life from start to finish.
I’m most proud of the consistency and quality I’ve been able to deliver, even after facing major setbacks like natural disasters, lost equipment, and pandemic-related closures. Despite all that, I’ve rebuilt my business and continued to serve my clients at a high level.
What sets me apart is my attention to detail and the personal care I put into every project. I’m not just snapping photos or making videos—I’m creating experiences and helping people and brands tell their stories in a way that’s intentional, polished, and memorable. I also approach my work with faith and values, which guides how I show up and connect with clients.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
For me, finding mentors and networking has been about being intentional and showing up consistently. Early on, I reached out to people whose work I admired—photographers, designers, and business owners—and asked genuine questions about their process and experience. I found that most people are willing to share advice when you approach them respectfully and with curiosity.
Networking works best when it’s not just transactional. Attend local events, workshops, or online groups in your industry, but focus on building real relationships rather than just collecting contacts. Show your work, ask for feedback, and offer value when you can. For me, keeping in touch with mentors and peers over time has opened doors I never expected—sometimes opportunities come from people seeing your consistency and dedication long before they offer help directly.
One thing I’d add is to take time to volunteer or work on projects for free—or at least low-stakes opportunities—to sharpen your skills. Early in my journey, some of my best growth came from helping friends, local businesses, or community events. It allowed me to experiment, learn from mistakes, and build a portfolio without the pressure of a paying client. Volunteering not only improves your craft, but it also expands your network and shows people your dedication and work ethic.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://flemo360.my.canva.site/portfolio
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flemo360/
