This Week We Feature Young Professional Shaun J. Black
For Young Professional Shaun J. Black, his decision to enter the field of capturing videos and images was sparked purely out of having an ‘eye for art’ from a young age.
As an entrepreneur, Shaun is the main photographer of the family business, John F. Black Photography, located in Sea Cows Bay.
Early Beginnings
Living in Tortola, [British] Virgin Islands, Shaun attended Francis Lettsome Primary School and Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS).
After graduating from ESHS in 2015, Shaun moved on to H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HSLCC) and graduated with an Associates Degree in Computer Studies.
“My main interest is in visual arts; photography, cinematography, graphic design and my hobbies are in my interest,” Shaun told Virgin Islands News Online (VINO).
Business of Photos
At John F. Black Photography, Shaun said the main focus is on photography and cinematography (video).
“We capture portraits, newborn photography, events, weddings, real estate, music videos, product photography and drone photography. We have extended services such as printing, passport photos and digital retouching,” he said.
When asked what is the most enjoyable part of the job, our Young Professional responded: “For the most part, I enjoy where people recognise the hard work and research that I’ve invested into myself and my business. This makes me feel a step closer towards achieving my goals.”
He said the biggest challenge right now in the business is not having enough staff but hopes in the near future his business can expand to provide jobs for others.
Life Lessons
Turning attention to life lessons, Shawn told VINO, his "biggest lesson so far is to not underbid yourself. I’ve overcome it by showing clients the value of the work they will be getting instead. Doubt sometimes may lead you to underbid yourself but you have to know when to draw the line.”
He said the decision to enter his current career field came out of a love and eye for art.
“I’ve always had an eye for art. I started off doing graphic design artwork and digital photo manipulation, then later transitioned into photography. I became more involved in photography in 2015 after my dad’s injury.”
Before running the business, Our Young Professional said he worked at Harneys in an entry-level position for a year doing basic filing work; however, a family injury changed things.
“At first I wanted to become a pilot when I was much younger. Then I began having an interest in computer studies and programming and app development. Since my dad’s injury, it shifted my interests but I’m quite happy with what I’m doing.”
Our Young Professional revealed that the money to start his current business came from his parents and that his family supporters remain a big part of what keeps him going.
“As the days go by, and my experience and skill level continues to grow, I always feel progression towards achieving my goals. One thing I’ve always desired is owning and operating a photography/cinematography facility,” he said.
COVID-19 & Business
With the presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shaun said it has been a trying time for business.
“COVID has slowed down and cancelled a lot of jobs that involved a social crowd, for example; weddings, festival, parties.
“Although I am very grateful for my customers who I am still able to cater to. It’s also stopped a lot of jobs that clash with curfew hours,” he said.
Shaun continued, “What’s personal for me is how it has affected my businesses. What affects them directly affects me, especially as a means of income,” he went in to say.
The Young Professional said he believes the government is doing everything in its power to ensure the safety of the territory, "although it is unfortunate that we are all facing the hardships of this pandemic.”
Parting Advice
In parting advice to youths looking to start a business, Shaun said to not be afraid to take risks in starting a business but always take serious research into what is being pursued.
“Stay focus and surround yourself with persons who will uplift you, support you and have similar goals and interests,” he said.
Shaun, along with John F. Black Photography, can be found at https://www.behance.net/SHAUNX,
https://www.facebook.com/JOHNBLACKFOTOS and https://instagram.com/johnfblackphotos.
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