Today we’d like to introduce you to James Eustace.
Hi James, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
WBL Started as just a hobby to keep myself busy and creative just like a lot of other photographers. The first portrait pictures were from trade shoots where models looking to build a portfolio would let photographers build with pictures they took and man were those first pictures rough. Eventually, though the work improved and people started contacting me for family pictures and slowly WBL went from an Idea to a business
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road, more of a pothole filled one. I lost 6 months of work when my laptop died, made multiple mistakes that have at the least made life harder if not cost me jobs. Trying to find the right balance between pursuing the photography career, making sure my family isn’t neglected and working a regular job is a whole thing in itself. Through all of the hard times though I’ve learned better ways to do things and although none of the rough stuff is fun as long as I can learn something or grow a little it’s worth the strain.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The WBL is the first letter of my kids from oldest to youngest, I wanted the name to be something other than just a catchy name and I think this works. As far as what I specialize in, I know I should specialize in a certain type of photography and im told it helps bring in business but im doing fine right now. Eventually, I might settle down to something specific but to be honest I’m still trying to nail down what WBL. I’m having fun and being successful trying to be an ink master of photography right now and learn everything that I can. The majority of my work right now is family portrait type things and weddings which are always fun but I’ve also worked with a Pro Bowl Retired Steeler which was amazing as well as a few charity golf events and worked with local music artists. Recently I’ve been trying to break into the music photography side of things and shooting mostly shows at the Scout bar. Speaking of the scout bar I’ll be shooting the Band Rehab at their April show there which is probably my biggest accomplishment yet and I’m really excited about that.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Just immerse yourself in the photography scene, meet everyone you can and learn everything they are willing to teach you. Photography is more than pointing a camera and clicking a button, it’s a creative process. learn the basics of how light works both in camera and how to make your light work for you to make a statement. Anyone can take a picture, a photographer tells a story or elicits emotions with what comes out of the camera. Find a style of shooting and editing that defines who you are, admittedly I’m still working on that and probably will for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Email: wbl_photography@yahoo.com
- Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/wbl_photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WBLphoto/
