Conversations with Jamie Ceasar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Ceasar.

Hi Jamie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I attribute two things that led me to become the photographer I am today.

1. Switching back to film photography. For me, it has put me in tune with the process of photography, and allowed me to become more of an observer of life, and to be more intentional when making photographs. I get a thrill every time I develop my film, and wait to see my vision unfold, and come to life. For me, the process never gets old.

2. 2020 was a very impactful year for everyone. Not only were we all dealing with the onslaught of Covid, but we were facing boiling points in racial injustice. I had the ability to go out and document the struggle, the fight, the solidarity, and love that was displayed at the various rallies, and demonstrations around Columbus. They inspired me, and moved me to get involved in future events that needed a lens to help promote, and spread awareness. Whether it was BLM, freeing Palestine, women’s rights, or ending human trafficking, I knew I loved the ability to document life. I love being able to share moments people may not have been able to see otherwise, and just maybe even convey a message that could potentially inspire others to action. Photography can be a very powerful tool for change.

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 hobby, photography was pretty smooth, but over the last year or so, I’ve switched gears into making my passion a business. Starting a business is not without its struggles, and a challenge has been to not lose creative focus in the process. My goal is to always enjoy what I do, so keeping that mindset has helped in keeping my eye on what matters most, my love for photography. Self-promotion and marketing are challenges for any artist, and I’ve experienced that along my journey. I think we, as artists, want to stand on the strength of our work, and let it speak for itself, but visibility is also important, and something I’m working on improving.

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?
Documentary and portrait photography are my specializes, but I also dabble in abstract photography as well. I like to do what pleases me, so I try to stay open to new ways of being creative. In 2020 I was one of the winners of the Art Unites CBUS award granted by the Greater Columbus Arts Council. This award recognized photographers and videographers that were actively documenting the George Floyd protests for equality in the city. That was a very proud moment for me, and I was honored to be chosen for something that meant so much to me personally. That moment led to my first gallery showings, which were at Capital University, and the Greater Columbus Arts Council. I recently participated in an exhibition curated by 934 Gallery, at the Columbus Airport, and the theme was Human Trafficking awareness. If my art can shine a light on causes that need attention, I couldn’t ask for more. I love creatives, and to me, there is nothing better than being inspired by someone’s work, or being blessed to inspire someone with yours.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I use Lightroom as my main app for editing photos on my iPad. I like to keep my editing simple, and Lightroom has all the tools I need to get the job done. One book I enjoyed recently was ‘Unseen: Unpublished Black History from The New York Times Photo Archives. A friend bought it for me as a gift, and I highly recommend this one if you’re into street/documentary photography.

Pricing:

• $150 per hour for portrait sessions

Contact Info:

• Website: ceasarphotographs.com
• Instagram: instragram.com/ceasar614