Today we’d like to introduce you to James “JT” Thomas.
Hi James, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I always wanted to be an entrepreneur, be able to say I started something & worked for myself. Originally, I wanted to be a graphic designer, then start my own design company. Even served in the Army as a graphic designer. But that’s where I also learned about photography & videography. The more I had to train & do it, the more I loved it.
Once I got out, I knew that the best thing for me was to capitalize on the skills I learned & start bringing my vision to life. As of right now, that vision, the Official 1 Brand, has been running for 4 years, with this past year being my first where I’m solely working for myself.
There are so many people I’d like to thank for just being my support system too; my parents, Vincent & LaVallee McMillan, for always being there (even when I got on their nerves). My brothers William, Stephen & Michael, are always lookout. My sister Hannah for being the bad cop to my good cop (sometimes vice versa! Love ya, sis!)
My amazing nephew Aiyden. You gave me the second greatest title I’ll ever have: UNCLE! I love you & I’m so proud of you. Now stop stepping on my toes please, lol. My cousin Michael Ward, who’s always been my partner in crime. We were always creative & did things our way. My favorite midget, Imani Boone! You’re amazing & I’m so proud of you. Love you so much
Krystal Kelley, I’ve known you for a few years now & I’d be lying if I didn’t say you don’t motivate me. You are ART. Your energy inspires everyone who is near it. Gabrielle Boone, who’s starting to become like my protégé lol. She’s so talented & gives 100% in everything she does. Vinny Elgen, for all the advice you’ve given me. Not just as an entrepreneur, but as a man & a father too. I respect you so much & appreciate everything you do
Of course, I saved the best for last, because I have to thank the biggest blessings in my life, my handsome Prince Messiah & my beautiful Princess Naomi. You two are my motivation for everything I do. Seeing your smiling faces, all the hugs & moments we share gets me through any obstacles I’m facing. I love you both so much & I’m blessed to be able to be your father.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d be lying if I said it was easy!
As an entrepreneur, especially in the photography field, you’re gonna have those times where you’re always booked & busy, then times where you don’t really get anything. It’ll really make you question whether or not you’re doing something right or doing enough. You have to stay focused & stay committed to the goals & vision you have.
For me, the majority of the difficulty was not having a strong portfolio when I got out of the army. It took a while for me to get steady bookings because of that. But after people started to see what I was capable of, it continues to get better. I’ll always say that resiliency & networking are the keys to success!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
So as of right now, I have 2 different businesses: Official 1 Brand & SEMAJ Magazine. Official 1 Brand is a multimedia company that specializes in the fields of graphic design, photography & videography. Our goal is to bring visions to life.
SEMAJ Magazine is my more recent business. I wanted to provide a new platform for photographers & models, no matter if they’re brand new or have years of experience. As for myself, I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, as well as numerous certifications in the Adobe suite. I also have 10 years as a graphic designer, 9 years as a photographer/videographer. I’m mainly known for my creative ideas (as well as my goofy tendencies).
What sets me apart from others is the fact that I don’t focus on others. I focus on what JT needs to do. I strongly believe that the only person who can stop me from doing anything is myself. On top of that, my creativity, passion & energy can be seen in every shot I take. I get excited every time I do something & take pride in the work I do.
Many would say that they’re proud of starting businesses & being able to work for themselves. I’m glad about it, but there’s one thing that I’m far more proud of being a father. There’s nothing more important than that to me. My Prince & Princess are my legacies. Plus, then being able to see their dad achieve his dreams will only show them that they can do whatever they set their minds to because they are destined for greatness
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I’ve learned so much during the lockdowns & throughout this pandemic.
I got on this app called Clubhouse & I’ve been able to talk with photographers who have been in the industry for decades (even some who are just scratching the surface of their own abilities like me). They’ve taught me so much about the business aspects as well.
I believe that everyone should’ve come out of this learning new skills, having new goals, or something that will either benefit or help them in the future.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@official1brand.com
- Website: https://drum.io/official1jt
- Instagram: @official1jt
- Twitter: @Official1JT
Image Credits
Gabrielle Boone (IG: @_couragekills_), Cassy (@cassy__sade), KaSh The Model (@kash.themodel), Gabrielle Boone Brittany (@__.bh) Brandi Shonté (@cocoalocz), Azira Burks (@theaziraburks), Zakaelia (@lone_wolf_zb), and Krystal Kelley (@kolormekayy__)
