Today we’d like to introduce you to Falando Jones.
Hi Falando, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my photography journey as a self-taught enthusiast, using photography books and YouTube as my primary resources. Eventually, I took a couple of college courses in photography, but they were primarily electives. The first camera I purchased was a Canon Rebel XS (1000D), and it was always by my side.
In 2011, I truly began to immerse myself in photography, driven by my love for capturing images, even if they were blurry. Each time I managed to get a shot in focus with decent composition, it boosted my confidence. Since then, I’ve been focused on discovering and developing my own voice and style in my work. Recently, I feel like my style—my voice, or even my brand—is finally coming into focus.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
For me, the visual arts have always served as my creative outlet. In my childhood, I would sit and draw random things, striving to make them as realistic as possible. I carried that love into my college years. However, I eventually grew bored with drawing and became impatient with the process of achieving final results. Naturally, I turned to photography as the next level of image creation for me.
Over the years, I have mainly taken pictures of whatever captured my interest, but my work has often lacked a clear direction or voice. In my earlier years, I did some client portrait work, small weddings, and events. Around 2016, I experienced a shift in my thinking and began focusing more on developing my own people-centered style. My main struggle has been finding my specific audience—those who would appreciate my work and become clients. Even now, I am refining my work to deliver a more polished, more attractive overall experience.
We’ve been impressed with Falando Jones Photography LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I decided to name my business after my first and last names because they are unique. Initially, I didn’t find this idea attractive enough; I thought I needed something that really stood out. However, every idea I considered felt cheesy and generic.
Recently, I’ve redesigned my logo to prominently feature my initials, FJP, with the “J” angled diagonally to add visual interest. To me, this logo represents the clean, polished look I strive for and reflects the elevated experience I provide to my clients. My goal is to create meaningful photos that resonate with my clients by fostering an inviting, relaxed environment that yields great results.
What I am most proud of in my photography journey so far is the opportunity to photograph remarkable people with incredible stories. For instance, I had the privilege of capturing a World War II veteran being welcomed back home in the Low Country for his 100th birthday. Additionally, I took portraits of an 80-year-old couple who hadn’t had photos taken in 50 years; the gentleman was a pilot who had flown around an ex-president and other notable individuals. I’ve also photographed a soldier returning home from deployment to his family, as well as Afghan refugees resettling in the United States. Moreover, I’ve collaborated with nonprofits that support the community and small businesses, helping them add new staff and enhance their visibility.
With all this in mind, FJP exists to create authentic, engaging professional portraits for inspired individuals and families, including creatives and professionals. I am grateful for the opportunities photography has provided me, allowing me to meet fascinating people with compelling stories. As I capture first-time professional portraits, update family photos, or refresh headshots, I am reminded that the personal touch I bring to each photoshoot is what truly makes it meaningful. Even with AI as a tool for generating images, having a human photographer—someone genuinely engaged, not just a professional button-pusher—makes for a great experience.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Honestly, I don’t often use the word “luck.” I believe that everything happens for a reason and unfolds at the right time. It can be intimidating to share your work or start a business, especially when you’re unsure of its potential success. However, you must take the risk of putting yourself out into the world to be discovered. Most of my clients have found me through referrals from friends and family or through my online presence on platforms like Facebook and Google. As a result, I’ve been able to attract more of the work I enjoy pursuing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.falandojonesphotography.com
- Instagram: @falandojonesphotography
- Facebook: @falandojonesphotography
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/falando-jones-photography-goose-creek
- Other: https://share.google/wNuTSdNv0vwzyjjPG
