Instagrammer: @jesseme93
Every week I talk to a new photographer on Instagram. They share their favorite locations, camera gear, and the best practices to have on Instagram. This week is Jesse Foy, a 22 year old based in Destin, Florida.
What inspired you to start photography? Are there any specific people on Instagram that inspired you?
"Well I’m actually a filmmaker. Videomaking is my true passion, but photography and filmmaking are so much alike that either one make me pretty happy, just as long as I’m behind the camera. When I was younger I only made videos, but as I got older I began to realize it was so much easier to shoot a nice photo in minutes rather than make a video which can take days and even weeks to finish."
"I’m really inspired by the people who follow me, comment, and like my photos on a daily basis. They’re the ones who encourage me to keep doing what I’m doing, and they’re more inspiring to me than any big-shot professional photographer."
What camera equipment do you typically use for your photos/videos?
"Most of the photos I post on Instagram is usually shot with my iPhone 6 or GoPro Hero 4. There are a few photos that have been shot with my 5D Mark iii, but most of the time I only use that camera for shooting photo sessions or for business. I usually edit solely on my phone, using the apps Snapseed and VSCOcam."
When I look at your feed, there are many cool tropical beach photos! What about the beach attracts you too create photographs and films?
"It’s where I live, and other than the beach, there aren’t too many great things to photograph around here. But even if I didn’t live close to the beach, I think I’d still make it a point to travel to the ocean and photograph it. I don’t know what it is about the beach, but there’s just something about it that relaxes me and lifts my spirits, and something about the ocean that intrigues me so much! I just love photographing anything that’s in or around the water!"
Here is a hard question, what is the most favorite photo you have ever taken?
"That is such a tough question because I have so many favorites! This may be a tricky answer too, because my favorite photo I’ve ever shared is this one:
The thing is I didn’t actually take it (my sister did @FloridianSunshine) but it’s my all-time favorite!
But as for my favorite image I’ve ever captured, I’d have to say it’s this one:
What about Florida do you love? Is there any spot that is your favorite place to take photos or create videos?
"I love the beach life. Everyone is friendly around here and so chill. It’s a great place to grow up, and no matter how far I travel in the world, I’ll always come back here, and it’ll always be my home."
"Like I said earlier, I really love the ocean, so anything under the water is always fun to photograph! I also like this little local spot called Norriego Point, there’s a bunch of rocks called the jetties, and even though sometimes it can be quite dangerous (I currently have some battle wounds on my body from slipping and falling into the rocks a week ago) it’s a great spot for photos!"
What do you love about the Instagram community?
"I love how much of an impact you can have on others. It’s so easy to share the love of Jesus with people by a simple photo or description. It has such a power to inspire people, and I know I've been inspired by simply scrolling through my newsfeed and seeing other people’s posts."
What advice would you give to the starting photographer/videographer on trying to take the best photos/videos possible?
"Do something unique."
"Don’t go for the same shot that everyone else gets. Don’t edit your photos the same way everyone else does. Look for something new, whether it be a style of photography or maybe a new approach to capturing a famous landmark or spot. Don’t be afraid to try something new and be different."
Lastly what advice would you give to the beginning photographer on Instagram trying to expose their work?
"Go like a bunch of hashtags so people will see it and follow you. (hahaha, just kidding)"
"Be consistent, and stick to it. I’ve seen so many people who get so into Instagram, trying to get themselves out there, then forget about it a month later. Stick to it, post on a daily basis, and stay active!"
"Never be satisfied with where you are as a photographer. Keep experimenting and striving to do better and better. Always push to make sure the next photo you shoot will be the best photo you’ve ever taken. "