We had the good fortune of connecting with Jeffrey Williamson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jeffrey, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I like making my own rules and not being limited creatively. I was an Art major in college and I loved being able to think outside of the box and be able create my own definition of beauty and success. When I officially began my business in 2011, I did not know what my next steps were but I stuck with it. I began developing my aesthetic style and business systems. I had a goal in mind to be able to not only support myself financially with my photography, but to also maintain a creative outlet that I didn’t have while working a 9 – 5. I was so depressed with the limitation of a 9-5 that it stifled my quality of work and life. It’s all about the hustle and forming genuine relationships while networking. I have been so blessed that my clients that come to me on a ‘word of mouth’ basis are consistent. When you put out quality work, maintain a high level of professionalism and customer service, you’re 80% there! The rest is remaining consistent and thinking outside of the box and not do what every other photographer does.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always loved art and creativity; and at an early age, I knew a camera would be in my future in some way. My passion finally manifested at my sister’s wedding in 2005. After watching the wedding photographer in awe, I became obsessed. I didn’t have a camera, but I joined my high school photography club anyway. I continued to build my talents in college by using campus equipment and resources. Eventually, I booked enough senior and greek portraits to buy my first Nikon. In 2011, I launched Jeffery Lynn Media Photography on the campus of Elon University and grew it into the premier photography source that it is today. I’ve been blessed to work with amazing clients, including top regional brands like Wrangler Jeans and the North Carolina Museum of Art, and to have my work featured on national platforms like Munaluchi Bride, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Bossip. I hold a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts and a Master’s in Interactive Media from Elon University, where I also became a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. I am a loving son, brother, and doggy dad, and when I’m not behind my camera, I love traveling and “sanging” old-school RnB classics. In the near future, I plan to dive deeper into the entertainment industry with music and editorial photography.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Tim Bowser. This guy is my Phrat brother and creative mentor. He has played a major role in my aesthetic and new business ambitions. https://www.instagram.com/mrtimbowser/
Website: https://www.jeffreylynnmediaphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffreylynnmedia/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreywilliamsonmaraleigh/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyLynnMedia/
Image Credits
All images @JeffreyLynnMedia