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

Hi Jasmine, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Growing up I was always the person that never took risks in life. I did what I was told and always stuck with that path that everyone wanted me to take. I found myself unhappy. When I turned 21 I decided to transfer colleges and leave my hometown against everyone’s wishes. The people closest to me had so much doubt that I made the wrong decision, but it ended up being the best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve learned so much about myself and what I want in life. If I would have stayed in my hometown I would have never gotten into photography or had the opportunities that I have gotten so far. Now I’m ready to take more risks and move to a new city to continue to better myself

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 am a creative. I have always been passionate about the arts. I love the opportunity to tell a story through my work. That what makes my work unique my photography is art. I want my photography to be on the walls of homes everywhere. I want to be an inspiration to other black creatives. It has not been easy getting to where I am today I have always been insecure about my work and afraid that I wasn’t talented enough in my craft, but as I continue to grow so does my confidence. I learned just to do! Don’t ever question or doubt yourself just do it! Put your work out there and keep pushing don’t ever let anyone tear down you down or discourage you. I wish I had of learned that sooner.

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?
Currently I live near Nashville. I would take my friend to visit some black owned spots that I know of in Nashville such as Minerva, Willie Bs, Slim and Huskeys, and The Weeknd lounge to eat and hang out. We would check out the malls in Nashville, go to the parks and do fun activities such as going to Nashville shores, parks and museums. A little dose of everything

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My best friends. Dev, Miah, and Tyler, if it wasn’t for them continuing to push me out of my comfort zone, supporting me and giving me the confidence boost I needed I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Instagram: Photography: @flashbyjas Personal: @cocojas_

Image Credits
The photo of me- Sofia Lopez @sofialopezphotography_ Models: Jermiah Crockett and Chaysen Patrick

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.