Today we’d like to introduce you to James-Lee Eloi
Hi James-Lee, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is James-Lee Ebert Eloi, and I was born on March 11, 1995, in Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti. From a young age, I was captivated by the digital world, especially graphic design and photography. Today, I’m based in Orlando, Florida, where I run JL Concept, a business that combines my love for both fields.
A Journey from Agronomy to Art
Originally, my dream was to study computer science, but financial constraints made that difficult. In Haiti, only a few private universities offer computer science programs, and pursuing that path was financially out of reach for me. My only option was to attend a public university, where my interest turned to medicine, with agronomy as my second choice. I was accepted to study agronomy at the Faculté d’Agronomie de l’Université d’État d’Haïti (UEH), and although my academic focus shifted, my passion for technology, the digital world never faded. Throughout my time at the university, I continued to deepen my knowledge in computer science on my own, watching tutorials and exploring the creative possibilities of digital design.
Despite my studies in agronomy, my love for art, technology, digital media kept pulling me in another direction. This passion eventually led to the founding of JL Concept, where I could fully embrace my interests in graphic design and photography for now.
Discovering the Power of Photography
Photography came a little later but quickly became just as essential to me as design. My first photos were taken on an old Kodak camera—nothing high-tech, but it allowed me to experiment and explore. I soon realized that photography was another way to express my creativity, just like graphic design. Both are forms of storytelling for me; whether I’m designing a logo, a flyer, or capturing a live concert, I’m always trying to communicate something unique and powerful.
I’ve developed a special passion for concert photography because of the energy and emotion that fill those moments. I love capturing the raw intensity of a performance, freezing a moment that resonates with the audience. But my skills go beyond concert photography—I’m equally at home with portrait and studio photography, both in controlled indoor environments and outdoor settings. Each style brings its own challenges and rewards, but they all allow me to explore different aspects of visual storytelling.
Over the years, I had the privilege of working with several media outlets in Haiti, covering a variety of events. My experience with Media Levanjil, a gospel media outlet, was particularly impactful; I worked with them for two years, capturing events and honing my skills in live event photography. Additionally, collaborating with Soul Entertainment and other media organizations gave me opportunities to document diverse events, each with its unique atmosphere and requirements. These experiences helped me grow as a versatile photographer, equipped to handle a range of photographic styles and settings.
The Turning Point and the Birth of JL Concept
In 2018, my career took a significant leap when I won a logo competition at the university that I studied. The logo I created for the “Faculté d’Agronomie et de Médecine Vétérinaire” marked a major milestone—it was my first big win. Looking back, I see so much I would do differently now; at that time, I was just beginning, and the design lacked the professionalism I strive for today. Still, that experience opened doors for me. After that win, I started receiving more clients asking for logos, posters, and other graphic design work. I knew I had so much more to learn, so I kept lurning, teaching myself through YouTube tutorials, and pushing my skills to the next level.
Commitment to Professional Growth
As my reputation grew, I wanted to ensure I was offering a truly professional level of service in both design and photography. I began taking online courses in digital marketing, photography and other fields that connect with them, while also reading books to deepen my understanding of these fields. I understood that in order to stand out, I needed to keep evolving. These domains are dynamic and change rapidly, so I am always seeking ways to stay updated and continue learning. Even now, I make it a priority to stay on top of the latest trends and techniques, because that’s what it takes to remain competitive and provide high-quality work to my clients.
Connecting Creativity in Graphic Design and Photography
For me, graphic design and photography are deeply connected. They both allow me to be creative in different ways, and I approach each with the same level of passion. When I design, I’m focused on creating something unique, something that tells a story visually. That same creative drive applies to my photography. Whether I’m capturing the energy of a live concert, the nuances of a portrait, or the details in a studio setting, I’m always looking to create images that resonate emotionally and leave a lasting impact.
With JL Concept, my goal is to push my creativity in both areas and differents fields wich are connected with them. I want to elevate my designs to be as expressive as my photos and bring that same sense of artistry and attention to detail into every project. Whether I’m creating a brand identity for a client or documenting an event, my aim is always to create something memorable, something that tells a story.
My vision for JL Concept goes beyond just photography and design. I want to create a brand that people can trust for high-quality, impactful visual storytelling. Eventually, I hope to expand into digital marketing, videography, and other areas, creating a full-service creative agency that helps clients bring their ideas to life in powerful ways.
Explore My Work
If you’re interested in seeing more of what I do, feel free to connect with me on Instagram:
* Graphic Design: www.instagram.com/jlconcept1
* Photography: www.instagram.com/jlconceptstudio
This journey has taught me the importance of passion and persistence. Graphic design and photography may be two different mediums, but for me, they’re two sides of the same coin—a way to express, to communicate, and to create. JL Concept is my way of sharing that with the world, one story, one design, one image at a time.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I often face clients who don’t fully understand the value of what I do. Many overlook the effort, creativity, and skill involved in designing a logo, poster or capturing a compelling image, viewing it as something that should be inexpensive or even free. It’s a mindset I hope to shift, especially as the world becomes more visual and digital.
Breaking into the field of graphic design and photography was not easy in Haiti. Purchasing equipment was a major obstacle; photography accessories are expensive and hard to come by. Now, being in Orlando, I’ve had to start from scratch, working to attract new clients and remain competitive in an already saturated market.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At JL Concept, I specialize in both graphic design and photography, seamlessly merging these two creative fields to provide clients with impactful visual storytelling. My work encompasses a range of services, brand identity, promotional materials, concert photography, and portraiture.
I’m particularly known for my concert photography, where I capture the energy and emotion of live performances. I aim to freeze those fleeting moments, allowing the audience to relive the experience. Additionally, I excel in portrait photography, whether in controlled studio settings or outdoor environments, each style offering unique challenges and opportunities for creativity.
What sets me apart from others is my commitment to storytelling through visuals. I believe that every design and photograph should communicate a narrative, engaging the viewer on a deeper level. My diverse background in agronomy and self-taught skills in digital media enhance my approach, allowing me to infuse a unique perspective into my work.
I’m most proud of my journey to establish JL Concept and the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Winning a logo competition at my university marked a significant milestone in my career, opening doors for me to work with various media outlets in Haiti and expand my portfolio. My continuous pursuit of knowledge through online courses and real-world experience ensures that I remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving creative landscape.
Ultimately, my passion for graphic design and photography drives me to deliver high-quality work that not only meets client expectations but also leaves a lasting impression.
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is the ability to create and express myself through my work in graphic design and photography. There’s a unique joy in bringing ideas to life, whether it’s designing a logo that embodies a brand’s identity or capturing a moment.
Seeing my clients satisfied with the final product is incredibly fulfilling. It’s rewarding to know that my creativity can make a positive impact on their projects and help them achieve their goals.
Additionally, the connections I build with people through my work bring me immense joy. Collaborating with clients, meeting fellow creatives, and engaging with my audience on social media enriches my life.
Lastly, the process of continuous learning—exploring new techniques, staying updated with industry trends, and pushing my creative boundaries—fuels my passion and keeps me excited about my craft. This ongoing journey of growth and discovery is what truly brings me happiness.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jlconcetpstudio and www.instagram.comjlconcept1
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jlconceptstudio and www.facebook.com/jlconcept1
Image Credits
James-Lee Eloi
