Sweet Baby Jake

“The glass always needs to be half full. If your attitude is glass half empty, you won’t succeed.”

Intercru: Where are you from? Where do you live and work now?

Jake: I was born and raised in Central Connecticut. It’s a typical suburban community- not at all like New York City and the area certainly didn’t offer the opportunities available in cities.

I was a city kid at heart but didn’t move to one until after college where I studied Graphic Design. I went to school near Boston and moved there afterward. I finally moved to Brooklyn last year where I eventually found a full-time design job. That’s where I am now, and photography is currently my side gig. In time, I see myself taking on photography as a full-time career.

How did you get started in photography?

I moved to Boston for an internship in college and brought my camera with me. It was a gift, but I never really used it. I biked into the city nearly every day but would forget my camera haha, so I relied on my iPhone for photos. I would edit those photos on random apps. I enjoyed editing and realized I should probably shoot with my DSLR instead.

I started bringing my actual camera and took photos around the city. I noticed the quality of the photos was so much better and I really enjoyed the artistry of editing more seriously. I then slowly moved from street photos into portraits and never really looked back. Taking pictures of people became a new form of art and expression for me that made me happy. I developed a passion for photography as art that continues to drive me.

What’s your favorite thing about NYC?

It’s gotta be the fact that I’ve been here for almost a year doing photo shoots almost every weekend in different parts of New York, and I still haven’t seen much of the city. There’s still so much unmarked territory and will probably always be. NYC is so big. I’m happy I will never run out of areas to explore and create in.

What do you love the most about being a photographer?

The people. That can be anyone really and the result can be endless. I love the models I work with and photographers I follow on social media or meet during photo shoots. I love working with other artists like musicians, stylists, videographers, painters…the list is endless.

Whether it’s hanging out and building relationships with other like-minded people or discussing new business opportunities, there is so much potential. Sometimes people will just see me holding a camera and ask what my socials are. Then they notice my talent and have a company or project that they need photo work for. You really have to keep a positive attitude and stay optimistic. The glass always needs to be half full. If your attitude is glass half empty, you won’t succeed.

Where do you find creative inspiration?

Everywhere. If you check my Instagram, I follow way too many people because I get inspired by everyone and everything. I follow a lot of photographers, models and a lot of fashion pages. Whether it’s clothing companies or people whose style I like, if you inspire me in any way, I want to be able to come back to see more.

I know some people like to stay more sheltered so they don’t overwhelm themselves with too many ideas, but the more I see of what’s out there, the easier it is to realize how I can keep developing my brand and be innovative while also adopting new ideas, big or small from all the incredible creatives out there.

Also, being a graphic designer for most of my life definitely enhances my eye as an artist and helps me see photography more creatively.

What’s your proudest accomplishment?

My proudest accomplishment has yet to come and that’s just because I’m always looking ahead and trying to improve. I know I can always do and be better.

However, if I had to pick something, I’d say my proudest accomplishment so far is taking the risk of moving to New York with no job and no friends here- during a pandemic! It worked out because I’m working a full-time graphic design job now and making new friends as I continue to create through photography.

I’ve had opportunities to shoot for a few brands in California and around the tri-state area so I’m proud of that work and the recognition. New York has really helped me gain a new base of supporters including photographers, models, and others. My experiences have been very positive for me and the people I work with but now I need to focus on the future. I know I can accomplish a lot, so I just need to keep evolving.

Who knows you the best?

Honestly, nobody knows me best. I feel like I’m constantly changing and evolving. Whether it’s my photographs or myself, like my professional attitude or even my style.

I’m very into fashion. I love styling myself as well as most of my photo shoots. Usually, photo sessions are a collaboration between me and my team. I like to direct the shoots but also want the model/team to be onboard with what we’re doing. Their input is equally as important as mine.

In 3 words how would you describe your style of photography?

I’m such a visual thinker that this question seems impossible. I would say my work has a vintage yet modern approach. My photos definitely bounce back and forth and are always evolving. Sometimes it looks more commercial and sometimes it’s more artistic. I definitely prefer the artistic style just because you can really get creative when editing and shooting but sometimes an outfit or scene calls for a simple look and feel. Brands and other businesses like to see more straight up photos too depending on who you’re working with.

Math was never my forte- pretty sure that was more than 3 words.

What would your dream photoshoot be like?

Probably shooting for classic brands like Adidas or Vans. I’ve rocked both of those brands most consistently over other brands.

I love what Wrangler does too. I feel like I could fit that style. Their photographers and photo work are huge inspirations to me. I’d also love to shoot with a few celebs. Shooting a true rock star or musician would be energizing. Shooting someone like James Taylor or Tom Petty (RIP) in their prime would be insane, then I could probably die happy. I’ve also always wanted to be someone’s personal photographer. I feel like I would kill that and enjoy it a lot too.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Work every damn day little Jake. Big or small, get something done. It will pay off. Also, never get too comfortable cause then you’re trapped. Keep evolving.