Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Oakley.
Hi Joseph, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began as a creative originally with photography. My main passion was telling stories from behind the camera. I loved the idea of being able to share my perspective of the world through the photos I would take. This was probably about 8 years ago now. I didn’t have a “real” camera. At the time I just shot on my phone which I believe was an HTC (not the greatest camera on the market). As I continued to shoot, I began to learn how I enjoyed putting images together and truly telling a story through my photography. Whether the story was of joy or pain, I enjoyed creating these stories and sharing them on my Instagram. Over time I took a liking to fashion photography. I started to learn more and more about streetwear and urban fashion, as trends came and went, I tried to mimic them in my own way and through my photography. Eventually, this led me to growing a passion for modeling. Initially, this provided a dilemma: I love to take photos but when I needed them, I could never find someone who could take photos of me with the same eye I had for photography. Then the spark formed of becoming the person behind and in front of the camera. After buying a cheap tripod and an old DSLR from a pawn shop, I decided to give that a shot. The rest is history. Now I shoot not only myself but my friends and clients as well. Starting a business definitely presented challenges but I love what I do which makes each challenge a learning experience to help me master my craft. As I grow into the creator I want to be, I’ve begun to get more into videography, posting reels on Instagram and TikToks so that I can become more and more of a true creative.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
As a creative, nothing is ever smooth. Every video/photoshoot for me is a new challenge that comes with their own struggles. The biggest thing to overcome is definitely the confidence of being in front of a camera on a regular basis. Creating reels and TikToks requires you to be comfortable in front of a camera and truly showing a personality. This was and is a struggle for me as I’m already not super outgoing and I’ve never been good at showing my personality. Being behind the camera also requires you to have confidence in your own abilities to take great shots every time. Every shoot is a test of your skills and talent. I find it important to always practice your skill so that you do have the confidence in your abilities to do what you love without second thoughts.
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 am a photographer/model. Overall, I consider myself someone who specializes in photography but as I continue to create, I find myself more and more diving into videography as well. I am most known for my modeling. Although I got into photography first, I find myself standing out more for my modeling capabilities. I’m most proud of my transition into creating reels and TikToks. As someone who swore by photography and never even considered making videos, I think this next step will only open more opportunities for me to eventually do what I love full-time.
I think what sets me apart from others is my eye for creation. I find ways to shoot/model/create that are original. Although I do take inspiration from other creatives, I try to stay true to my own originality and not fall into a niche that will not allow me to grow.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I think the things that help me do my best at life are probably just the people I keep around me. My friends and family motivate. me to do more and go further and do better at everything I strive for.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Josephasthetic
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josephasthetic/
