Meet Danielle J | Creative photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Danielle J and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danielle, how do you define success?
I believe success is connected to who you are and where you come from. For me its more than a bank account number or what zip code is on my mail. Success for me looks like inspiring others to accomplish their dreams and goals. I know that I’m doing something right when others are inspired my life. Success for me is also not giving up, you might not be where you want to be but you’re not where you used to be, and that says success when you just keep going.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a creative photographer originally from Dallas, Tx, I’ve been in Atlanta for 8 months. I’ve been a photographer for 8 years but in 2020 I decided to take it serious. Over the passed two years I’ve received 12 covers and 30 plus features in magazines. It’s like God was showing me I’ve had a great gift all long, I just wasn’t working it. Through shooting I’ve realized how much I loved telling black stories and shooting editorial and fashion. The passed two years hasn’t been easy but giving up wasn’t an option. I tell myself patience is key, nothing worth having comes easy. I’ve believe timing is everything, and you can’t rush purpose. I think one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned thus far is there is no such thing as “there”. Often times we stress ourselves out trying to make it to a certain place in our career which causes burn out. I had to learn how to pace myself and fall in love with the journey not the destination. If I could give any advice to other creatives, that would be it. It’s the journey not the destination, and give your self grace to grow. There’s no such thing as an overnight success. My desire is that my art lives longer than me, and that God receives the glory out of my work. My reason to keep going is to inspire others who are on the same path. My goal is to help others climb up the ladder of success and inspire other great black women who will come after me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My idea of a great weekend would be Brunch at the southern porch, then a little shopping in Avalon. At night we’ll head to to Buckhead to get some good and drinks. Maybe hit up a bowling alley and have a little more fun. Sunday brunch again and go hiking at stone mountain, then end the weekend at a black owned smoothie place. I’ve been fascinated by the scenery in Georgia, so definitely would take advantage to go hiking and see some water falls.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Brandon and Lauren freeman, my spiritual parents. My family in Dallas.

Website: https://www.dvniellej.com/

Instagram: @dvnielleJ & @bydvnielleJ

Twitter: @dvnielleJ

Facebook: dvnielleJ photography

Image Credits
Model in photo 1: Saint Mike Model in photo 2: Dezzy Model in photo 3: Drumell Model on photo 4: Diron Jones