Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Duque.
Jasmine, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I picked up my first camera when I was in middle school. My mom’s friend let me borrow her camera for a contest my school district was holding. It was called “Heroes in the Community”. I submitted a collage of my church because I admired the leaders they were and I enjoyed capturing people in their natural element. I went to the church pantry and took photos of everyone working hard to help one another. The people I met there were so beautiful to me and I wanted everyone else to see it too. My collage earned honorable mention and it was an experience I won’t forget. It was my very first photography project and it was something I had full creative control of. Ever since then I missed the joy that photography brought me. I took a photography class in high school but ended up being so involved with other activities that it was put on the back burner. Two years ago, I decided to pick it back up. I have finally built up the courage to pursue a dream of mine and it feels good to be here now.
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?
I’ve had a handful of people mention how easily my business began. I’m thankful that it has looked easy so far but it’s been tough for sure and it’s been a long time coming. This is nothing but blood, sweat, and tears. I’ve spent countless hours researching the ever-evolving techniques this field has to offer and creating ideas for clients I didn’t even have. I just wanted someone to give me an opportunity to prove that I can do this. I’ve made some huge business mistakes that cost me a lot of money by not charging properly and giving too much in certain situations. Finding ways to market myself and gain clients has been a job within itself. Starting off I didn’t have much to work with and had to figure out how to buy equipment, register my business, and do what every other business owner does in the beginning. The business side of photography is time consuming sometimes and can take away from the creative side, but business is business. Being a woman in this industry isn’t the easiest thing either. There are safety issues I constantly think about and I’ve definitely had conversations with men that just didn’t think I had it in me to succeed. Along with other personal reasons, I mostly struggled with my self-confidence. We are our own worst critics. I was almost sick to my stomach when I decided to post my first photo on my Instagram for fear that no one would see the potential I had. It’s something that I still struggle with but it’s a hurdle that will probably always be there so long as I’m an artist. I think it makes me better because I constantly strive to outdo myself and push for greatness. There will always be hurdles but I look forward to jumping over every single one.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a photographer and videographer. It’s taken me some time to settle on a niche. I currently specialize in portrait and fashion photography. I have built some really amazing partnerships and relationships with my clients and I believe that’s something I do well in. I truly care about what my clients want and envision for their shoot and do everything in my power to achieve it. I’m also proud of be co-owner of a photography studio, MJB Studios, in Arlington.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice for finding a mentor or networking is to utilize the tools you already have at your disposal. Social media is such a powerful tool that we use to connect with one another. I’d definitely look for local photography workshops to gain some knowledge and network with fellow photographers. I’ve also reached out to established photographers and have asked to tag along on shoots. I am very hungry for wisdom and knowledge about photography and this business. Facebook forums have exposed me to some amazing local talent. I’ve collaborated on styled shoots with other photographers and have learned so much in a short amount of time. Something that a lot of people underestimate is asking your own friends, coworkers, and family members if they’re into photography. My studio co-owners, Brandon Lester of The LX Studios, and Matt Hargrove of Matt Hargrove Photography, started off as friends and coworkers. We now have an amazing partnership with our studio and a team that has covered all types of photography and videography needs across DFW. It all started from a simple conversation about what we do on our free time.
Contact Info:
- Email: dulcejasminephotos@gmail.com
- Website: dulcejasmine.com
- Instagram: instragram.com/dulcejasminephotos
- Facebook: facebook.com/dulcejasminephotos
Image Credits
Dulce Jasmine Photos LLC
