Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Baldwin.
Hi Joseph, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love for portrait photography began three years ago when I started filming interviews with other creatives and entrepreneurs.
Everyone has a story to tell, and my overarching goal was to provide a platform for them to share their victories and challenges along their journey.
While I was progressing swiftly, I yearned to deepen my understanding of my camera and enhance my ability to capture unique shots and craft more engaging narratives.
Everything changed when I attended a models and photographers meetup in Downtown Houston.
There, I stumbled upon another avenue of photography I hadn’t previously explored, thanks to insights shared by a fellow photographer named David.
He introduced me to shooting in manual mode, taught me how to control ISO and shutter speed, and unlocked a new realm of possibilities.
Since that transformative day, my passion for portrait photography has only intensified.
Today, I approach my photography with a simple yet profound goal: to make my clients feel like superstars, to create uniquely unforgettable experiences, and to immortalize fleeting moments.
In my journey thus far, nothing has had a greater impact than the ability to breathe life into others’ stories and empower them through my photography.
It truly feels like a blessing to witness and capture the transformations that unfold before my lens.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, the road hasn’t been smooth.
There were many times I felt like giving up, shedding tears, and experiencing burnouts.
Yet, the biggest challenge I faced was understanding the market and target audience.
For the longest time, I thought it was solely about creating photos, but photography is also about business.
I had to unlearn the habit of thinking only about myself and how I would benefit from certain projects or client work.
Instead, I learned to focus on serving and adding value to others through my unique skills and creativity.
This forced me to look at the bigger picture and question myself: Am I doing this because I am passionate about portrait photography, or is it just for the money?
I came to the realization that I love portrait photography and the ability to craft light, creating stories that transform others.
Yet, to reach that point, I had to work on myself. I had no meaningful mission or purpose, just a camera and creativity.
However, I had to reflect on what would make me stand out in a saturated market.
Overcoming the challenges, I went back to my roots, reflecting on my first love, which is skateboarding, and how it changed my life and perspective on the world.
Drawing the same connection, I navigated through the challenges of my photography journey and found my identity in my work as an entrepreneur and the value I bring to others.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a creative editorial photographer specializing in crafting uniquely special portraits that transform people into stars and empower them.
Through light and angles, I create stories that capture unforgettable experiences.
I guide my clients and subjects step-by-step through posing, providing a safe space for them to be their authentic selves.
I am known for capturing and delivering exactly what my clients desire through my photography.
What I am most proud of is my ability to connect with anyone during photo sessions.
In those brief moments, I am dedicated to serving the needs and desires of those I work with, bringing their visions to life.
I take pride in having a positive impact and instilling confidence in others.
What sets me apart is my commitment to giving my all from start to finish, whether it’s a paid project or a collaboration.
I am dedicated to bringing out the best in everyone I work with.
When clients or other creatives work with me, they experience my authentic self without any pretense.
As a result, I receive positive feedback and praise for being professional, down-to-earth, and easy to work with.
I am transparent with all my processes, ensuring that clients and collaborators are never left wondering or second-guessing.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I suggest that everyone find a mentor who resonates with their purpose or meaningful life mission.
A mentor can help sharpen the tools and knowledge you already possess, bridging gaps and overcoming challenges on your journey.
For me, finding a mentor to help elevate my photography and unlock a transformational journey within has been invaluable.
My mentor, Steve Carty, is a professional photographer with 33 years of industry experience.
Being a part of his Carty Method Masterclass has truly been a blessing.
When I began my photography journey, I was uninformed; I knew nothing about telling stories through photography or running a business.
I experienced both successes and failures, but discovering Steve Carty’s YouTube channel changed my life and the trajectory of my photography business and meaningful life mission.
Another powerful method that has helped me along my journey is networking.
I used to be shy and terrified to speak to others because I always felt socially awkward and uncomfortable.
However, I gained confidence by putting myself in uncomfortable positions, like attending networking events.
I learned that you never know who is present in the room or where the next small conversation might lead.
Networking allows others to discover what you do and helps build good personal and professional relationships.
Don’t be afraid to give it a try; it’s not as daunting as it seems.
Even if you only meet a few people, introduce yourself, state your intention, add value, and exchange information.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://josephbaldwinphotography.myportfolio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativewrks777/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JosephBaldwin12498
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-baldwin-41900b216/
- Other: https://nottheaveragejoe.substack.com/?sort=top
Image Credits
Leah Chavez
Rachel Pfeifer
Marcos Da Silva
Sharieka Hall
Aceah Brown
Estefania Anzaldua
Earl Sweatshirt
