Today we’d like to introduce you to Jarrett Polite.
Hi Jarrett, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My passion for photography and videography actually started back in high school attending Orangeburg Wilkinson when I was involved in theater. We had the opportunity to work on a film project, and that was really my introduction to filmmaking. I fell in love with the whole process—not just capturing moments, but creating scenes, building a story, and seeing an idea come to life through the camera. From there, I started taking photography more seriously and filming my own projects. Over the years, it’s grown from something I was interested in into something I’m genuinely passionate about. I enjoy being able to tell stories, whether that’s through one photograph or an entire film.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve had challenges in my personal life, and creatively, there were slow seasons—especially when I first started—where staying consistent wasn’t always easy. But those moments taught me patience and how important it is to keep creating even when things aren’t moving as fast as you want them to. I’ve also learned not to be afraid to switch lanes, try something different, and adapt. Photography and filmmaking are always evolving, so I try to stay open to learning, whether it’s new equipment, new techniques, or just finding better ways to tell a story. Looking back, I think those challenges actually helped me become more versatile and more intentional about what I create.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I would say I specialize in visual storytelling through photography and filmmaking. I’m known for capturing images that have a cinematic feel, but I also enjoy creating and building scenes that tell a story beyond just a good-looking shot. What sets me apart is that I don’t really look at myself as just a photographer or videographer—I look at myself as a creative. I can take an idea, visualize it, capture it, and turn it into something that makes people feel something.
I also think my background in theater gave me a different perspective because I pay attention to things like emotion, character, setting, lighting, and the overall mood of a scene. And I’m always willing to learn and evolve, so I never want to put myself in one box.
What does success mean to you?
For me, success is growth—not just professionally, but personally as well. I want to continue reaching new levels with photography and filmmaking, but I also want the person behind the camera to keep growing. If my work is getting better, my life is moving forward, and I’m becoming a better version of myself through the process, that’s success to me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayp_r7?igsh=MWZnOGJzaTg1dW5qeg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@jarrettpolite?si=Lbb21mOqn4C0rwr5
