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

Hi Thomas, how do you think about risk?
Life is all about taking a risk and seeing it through. You never know how that one risk you take could change the whole trajectory of your life. My family took a risk by moving from North Chicago, IL to Palestine, TX the beginning of my freshman year of high school. That one move has introduced me to new experiences and people that has helped shape me into the man I am today.

My first time really taking a risk for myself was turning down two full-ride scholarships to attend Morehouse College. Some family and friends could not understand my choice but, I believe it was the best decision of my life. By taking that risk I have walked through many doors of opportunities, built unbreakable bonds, and made various connections across the world.

Take the risk, do the thing you were called to do. You might get a million ‘no’s’ but it really only takes that one ‘yes’.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My grandparents brought me my first camera in grade school. It was one of those little Disney Digital Cameras, I took that camera everywhere I went to capture as many memories as I could. I actually still have it to this day.

In middle school, I decided to join the yearbook committee. A few of my friends were doing it and I figured it’ll be kind of cool. All I knew was to point and snap at the time, but learning about angles, lighting, and edits is when the love of photography started.

By high school I had upgraded my camera and editing skills and again took it everywhere with me. I was able to work with a local photographer in the area who educated me on different skills, edits, and prints. It was just like having a high school job and I am so thankful to my family and friends for always being my models.

In college to help get my name and face out, I started shooting at different campus/local events, parties, graduations, etc.

One day it payed off. I was invited to a fashion show hosted by Dior and was able to network with a lot of great photographers and models alike. From there, I knew I wanted to take this serious and make it my business. I stayed up all night that day and I started playing around with names, logos, colors until I was satisfied.

The following week I launched TargIT Photography now known as TargIT Creations LLC. It’s not just photos but everything creative from custom apparel to sweet treats.

What started as a hobby has truly turned into a second source of income. I really haven’t put a camera down since and can’t imagine life without it.

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 love a good bunch or a Sunday Funday so we will definitely have to hit up Spice House, Old Lady Gang, ATL Breakfast Club, or Rum Punch.

I’m pescatarians so for a quick bite before a night out I’m getting some fish and shrimp from JJs Fish & Chicken. Also Dat Fire Jerk Chicken.

Cool places to visit of course the Civil Rights Museum, Ax Throwing, Krog Street Market, Ponce City Market, Atlantic Station, and The Battery.

Vibes and drinks 656, Edgewood, Harold’s Ice Bar and Grill, Cirque, CRU, and sivas

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a shout out to my village. To know me is to know that family and friends is everything! I couldn’t do anything without the support and sacrifices of my family, and trust me they have all sacrificed a lot. I would also like to thank my various church families and prayer warriors for keeping me grounded and covered. Last but not least my community both North Chicago, IL and Palestine, TX for always having my back and pushing me. The love and support is real in my village.

Website: https://targitphotography.smugmug.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/targit_creations/

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/targitcreations?lang=en

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/pg/TargitCreations/posts/

Image Credits
Thomas Jones (TargIT Creations) Jeremiah Williams (iRoad Productions)

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.