Meet Jalen ` Sorrells | Self-Taught Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jalen ` Sorrells and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jalen `, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
I’ve always enjoyed putting a smile on people’s faces and what better way to do that than to take their pictures. Most of the people who I have taken pictures of have no modeling experience and I feel like it is my job to make them look like a model, which is something everyone can be proud of. So if I can give the client something they’re proud to show off, then I know I did my job.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I feel like my edits are what separate me from others. For me it’s the most exciting part becasue I can bring my vison to life, I always try to make the colors pop as much as possible. I started taking pictures for ammodeling organization at my school, so i was alwas given cool concepts create. I was pretty lucky to be given that oppurtunity and it has definetly been the creative outlet I needed. Trying to kickstart the buisness side of photography has been a bit difficult since it is an oversaturated market , but I’ve found the most success when i just worry about creating art instead of trying to score a client.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would definitely take them to all of my favorite restaurants to give them a feel for the city. A favorite restaurant of mine is Fat Matt’s Rib Shack, undoubtedly the best bbq in Atlanta. Then I’d do a bit of sightseeing in the city, which could be visiting somewhere like Ponce City Market or Little 5 points. I would also try to find somewhere new we could both experience. I would try to see what they’re interested in so we can find the best version of that in the city. I would definitely take a polaroid camera with me to make some memories while we’re at it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
For starters, I don’t think I would have gotten here if it weren’t for everyone who allowed me to take their photos, I wouldn’t be able to do what I love if it weren’t for them. Huge shoutout to a friend of mine, Jordan Richard who got me into photography, and for that, I’ll forever be grateful.

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