Episode 22: Exploring the World of Photography with Jake Hicks: A Journey Through Colors and Education

View Jake’s work at https://www.jakehicksphotography.com

Title: Exploring the World of Photography with Jake Hicks: A Journey Through Colors and Education

Hey there, photography enthusiasts! It’s your host, Jay, from “The Photography Junkie,” and I’m thrilled to bring you yet another exciting episode. Today, we’re delving into the world of a remarkable photographer who’s not afraid to paint his canvas with vibrant and striking colors. Episode 22 is all about the incredible journey of freelance photographer Jake Hicks.

The Invitation to Inspiration

As many of you know, I love connecting with the photography community to discover and showcase inspiring talents. In this episode, I have the pleasure of introducing you to Jake Hicks, an artist renowned for his fearless use of bold and captivating colors.

Jake Hicks: The Color Visionary

Jake joins us on the show with genuine gratitude for the invitation. It’s fascinating to learn that it was a recommendation from the online photography community, particularly from Purple Port, that brought him here. Jake modestly confesses that he hasn’t updated his Purple Port portfolio in years, but he truly appreciates the recognition and the chance to share his insights with us.

A Two-Decade-Long Journey

Let’s dive into Jake’s incredible journey as a freelance photographer that spans over two decades. He started his career in the early 2000s, just as the photography world was transitioning from film to digital. It was a challenging time for freelance photographers like Jake, as digital cameras were becoming more accessible, and clients were beginning to experiment with photography themselves.

The Transition to Digital Photography

Jake takes us back to those days when digital photography was still in its infancy. The era when film cameras ruled, and adapting to the rapidly evolving landscape was a must. The challenges were real, but Jake’s passion for photography was even more significant.

A Brief Interlude and a Return to Photography

In response to the shifting dynamics of the industry, Jake decided to take a short break from photography to explore other passions. He embarked on adventures in climbing and outdoor activities, but as he candidly confesses, photography is where his true talents lie. Eventually, he returned to the craft, working in a bustling studio and honing his skills.

The Value of Studio Experience

Jake shares how working in a busy studio provided him with a remarkable opportunity to learn and grow as a photographer. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, highlighting that there’s no shortcut to becoming a better photographer than spending countless hours behind the lens. It was during this studio period that Jake’s passion for working with colors began to flourish.

A Rebellion Against Monotony

Studio work during that time mostly consisted of monotonous, high-key, white-background shots, mirroring the style of iconic brands like Gap. Jake explains how his fascination with colors grew out of a desire to break free from this repetitive style. Slowly but surely, he developed his own signature style, one that clients began to seek out.

Transitioning to Freelance Once Again

With his unique style firmly established and a growing clientele, Jake made the pivotal decision to return to freelance photography. This marked a significant turning point in his career. Today, he proudly stands as a freelance photographer with a distinctive style and a passion for bold and vibrant colors.

The Role of Formal Education in Photography

I also had the pleasure of discussing the role of formal education in photography with Jake. We pondered the question: In an era of abundant online resources and tutorials, is formal education in photography still relevant? Jake provided a thoughtful response, emphasizing the benefits of structured learning and mentorship in helping aspiring photographers find direction and develop essential foundational knowledge.

The Significance of Foundation

Jake highlighted that formal education not only teaches you what you know but also what you don’t know. It provides a structured path for learning, guiding students to understand the fundamentals of photography, such as lighting, composition, and visual perception. Jake’s own education included a foundational art course, which he credits for his ability to see and manipulate light effectively.

The Impact of Learning from the Past

Drawing from his formal education, Jake discussed how it enabled him to develop a deep understanding of light and its role in photography. He also acknowledged that the art of seeing and capturing light is often overlooked in today’s era of instant online tutorials. Learning these foundational skills through education has given him a unique perspective on photography.

Exploring Film Photography

The conversation took an intriguing turn as we discussed film photography. Despite the digital dominance of contemporary photography, Jake confessed his ongoing love for film. He mentioned the Pentax 67 as one of his favorite film cameras, praising the unparalleled quality of the images produced by medium format film.

An Affection for Instant Film

Jake revealed that he also enjoys shooting instant film, particularly Polaroid and Fuji film. The tangible nature of instant film provides a unique tactile experience that digital photography can’t replicate. Despite the higher cost associated with instant film, Jake occasionally indulges in the medium for its aesthetic appeal.

A Dash of Color and a Touch of Artistry

Our conversation concluded with a brief discussion of colorful film stocks, with Jake recommending Ektachrome for its vibrant and unique colors. He also shared his love for the Mamiya Universal Press camera, which he uses for instant film photography, showcasing his passion for experimenting with different mediums to create captivating images.

In this episode of “The Photography Junkie,” we’ve had the privilege of stepping into the captivating world of Jake Hicks, a seasoned freelance photographer with a flair for colors and a deep appreciation for the art and science of photography. His journey, spanning over two decades, serves as an inspiration for aspiring photographers, reminding us of the importance of foundational knowledge, the value of mentorship, and the enduring allure of film photography in our ever-evolving digital age.

Stay tuned for more captivating stories and insights from the world of photography right here on “The Photography Junkie.” Until next time, keep clicking and creating!*