Meet Justin Thomas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Thomas.

Hi Justin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey began about 6 years ago when I just had a certain fondness for photos and the art of taking photos.

It’s probably because my Instagram page was so bad at the time lol. Gordon Parks was a big inspiration of mine and I just began to dig into his work. I then went to a film store and the rest is history.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has definitely not been a smooth road lol.

Issues of self-doubt, sinking money into the equipment I barely used. My overhead was high because film and film development isn’t cheap. I wasn’t making any money off of it. I felt like it was becoming a job and turning to ask folks “can I take your picture” felt like more annoyance.

So I started to fall back and then I met my girlfriend and future wife, Tiffany in late 2019 and she really reprogrammed my thoughts on where I was and where I needed to be to move forward.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I would call myself a multifaceted artist. I do photography (film) and poetry. I’m most proud of the fact that I call myself an artist. To do so requires full self-awareness and vulnerability.

There’s a minimal security in the profession so many people stay chasing white rabbits their whole lives. I’m proud of people recognizing my work and simply saying “it’s good”. I turn I can get paid what I’m worth and I know I’m worthy of a beautiful life from it.

What makes you happy?
The people I love. Making others smile and feel good about themselves. Helping others because there’s so much that can steal your joy. We all need a little healing and love. Anything to help facilitate that I’m happy.

Pricing:

• $300 for a 2-hour shoot.
• $450 for a family shoot.
• $600 for the event.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @southsidejus
• Twitter: @southsidejus

Image Credits
Derrick Barnard, Tiffany Burnette, Jalyssia Thomas, Epiphany, Victoria Tyler, Eboni Dean, Justin Singleton, Vinnie Dangerous, and Martez