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Meet Natiah Jones: Photographer & Marketing Professional

Estimated reading time ~ 3 min
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Meet, Natiah Jones, Marketing Specialist and Photographer

What industry are you in?

Natiah: Marketing and Photography

What do you do professionally?

I'm a marketer, photographer and creative director

Where do you work?

Self-employed

What was your journey like to get to where you are in your career?

Having two careers has been the most interesting and exciting part of my professional journey. I have both a data-driven and creative mind all powered behind my passion for humanity and storytelling. I've challenged the status quo by studying sociology instead of communications or being a self-taught portraiture photographer instead of getting an MFA. I think my confidence in this unique journey is all fueled by starting out being "the other". Being in rooms and at tables that historically haven't been made for me and understanding that my non-traditional background is the reason those rooms and the tables exist in the first place. Now I'm in a place where I challenge everything and don't let the odds create a detour from where I know I can take my insights and creativity.

What was one of the most challenging lessons that you learned during your process?

The bumps and rough patches are usually mountains that lead to a beautiful view of the journey from the top. It also includes a peaceful descend to the next chapter. Humility and releasing the ego are key.

What was the most valuable lesson you learned during your process?

When people believe in you, believe them.

What was your biggest obstacle?

I have always been a forward thinking human, both personally and professionally. Which means I think mostly in "long-term" instances. Over the years I've learned that it's the everyday routines, practices, habits and affirmations that make a beautiful life that I pray for.Instead of asking where I want to be 10 years from now, I ask myself more present questions. Like how much water I've drank today or what I've learned recently or if I've completed my weekly tasks or if I was graceful to myself if I didn't.

When did you realize you were going in the right direction, professionally?

Success is measured by the people who we impact and inspire along the way, ourselves included. Whether I'm working on marketing campaign, photographing intriguing people or producing a shoot - when work is being made from love, empathy and integrity it will always feel like the right direction.

What was a pivotal moment in your career that led you to where you are now?

Mind, body and spirit severely impacts the work that we do. If we aren't treating ourselves in healthy manners, then it'll reflect in the end result, our relationships and overall happiness when working.More recently, due to the pandemic, I've become more cognizant of daily routines and practices that help me be a better colleague and creative. There have been so many terrible things that have happened within the last two years. I wanted to pay respect to this time, my career and life in general by treating myself and those around me with the upmost dignity and integrity. There's a level of care and empathy that I have now for the work I do and the people I work with that was a little more hard to find before.

How did you overcome doubt during your career journey/transitions?

Hearing the journeys and transitions of others has helped me overcome many challenges and growing points that I've faced. I do this with a few of my favorite podcasts:On Purpose with Jay ShettyWork in Progress with Sophia BushDesign Matters with Debbie MillmanThe School of Greatness with Lewis HowesThe Rachel Hollis Podcast

For those who may be experiencing imposter syndrome, what advice would you give that has helped you?

I think by us choosing to love ourselves, those around us and the planet without the distractions of the world (social media, societal expectations, material lifestyles, etc.) - we are able to touch on where our true passions lie.Once you combine that unconditional love and those passions without any distractions the law of attraction comes into place. There is no room fear (or imposter syndrome) when we are impacting and inspiring the world around us. It's bigger than us and we are all apart of a larger plan to connect with one another.

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