Meet Jamese Wiley | Photographer & Visual Artist

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

Hi Jamese, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
With the increase in bookings and now having a part time waitressing job, the balance has definitely shifted some . It has become a bit challenging to make time for the small luxuries , if I’m honest . Now, I will say that I think of this shift as a good problem to have . An increase in bookings shows an increase in interest and a new level of understanding for my work from the public . So that is actually exciting ! Life is full of growing pains and fresh obstacles – these things are meant to keep you nimble and agile . And I’m positive that as I move forward with my photography and work completely for myself, the time wrinkles will smooth out !

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 believe what sets me apart is my willingness to stay true to a person’s true form . My client’s identity is what I aim to capture and give them an unforgettable experience in the process . Human connection is important , whether humanity itself wants to recognize it or not ! And I actually enjoy connecting with my clients . It makes it easy for them to open up and be authentic , and authenticity is the key to my shoots . I don’t photoshop , I don’t make major alterations – just vibes and light touches . Natural lighting is the best way to go for me , and it works because it causes me to have to problem solve and learn shadows and the like … and you can see in my work how much love I put into it . I believe that’s what makes a brand work – it’s the amount of love and effort they put into it . There’s been many challenges but I have put my pride aside and asked questions and remained teachable . As my pastor says , “‘going there’’ can’t tell ‘been there’ how to get there !” Haha !

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If Jenetta came to visit me? Hm , that’s a good question . Haha, I would take her to the Foxtail in Madison for lunch for sure . The drinks are amazing and unique and the food is even better . Another restaurant I’d take her to is Local 463 in The Renaissance . Their flavors are all their own ! The Renaissance in general is a great place to go and walk around and shop . There’s so many stores and bites around and there’s also a B&B theatre .! So we of course , would have to catch a movie there . A place I would want to try is Louise’s piano bar in the Fondren . It looks like such a “grown up” place to go after hours , and they have caviar (which I’ve always wanted to try)! Another area I would take her to is Dogwood Festival , which is essentially a shopping area in Flowood . Consequently, there is an art gallery (Pacesetter Gallery) where I have some art featured !

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?
There absolutely is . A few folks actually ! First and foremost , God . He is my source . I can’t stress that enough ! Now, as far as people ? I wouldn’t know how to even use a camera if it weren’t for Jarvis Fox of Twelve Vision here in Jackson ! When COVID hit , he went from photographing me to mentoring me and taught me most of what I know ! He was always encouraging and kind and informative and he certainly helped me in getting where I am . Another person I want to recognize is Tony Casso of UrbanCasso . He has always encouraged me and given me confidence boosts in my work when I needed it most . He even let me be his first photoshoot ! Last but not least , I want to recognize all the people who allowed me to shoot them and experiment and express myself in collaboration with their expectations . Every single person has added to my portfolio and given me feedback and encouragement to keep going . I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them .! I’m grateful for the journey that has brought me across the paths of these people !

Website: https://Hausofhazon.com

Instagram: HTTPS://www.instagram.com/hazon.haus

Image Credits
Ledrick (Model) “Flying Tie”
Tony Casso (Model) “Thoughts of Man”
Blakeney (Model) “a Gentle touch”
Cord Short (Model) “Framed”
Slim Jimmy Burrell (Model) “Joys on Green”
Joshua (Model) “Red Waves”
Amaya (Model) “Freedom”