Meet Jake Cox

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Cox.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
In 2016, I worked as a cook. I was fed up with years of working in the service industry and decided I needed a change. I had always done photography for fun, shot some stuff for friends and just as a hobby but thought I had a knack for it. I decided I wanted to try to make that my full-time job. It was a rocky road, to say the least. Starting a business from scratch with no schooling doesn’t really just happen. I picked up a job at a local sports youth photography studio with the hopes of shooting teams and individuals, action, and large scale posters. I started in customer service and eventually got behind the camera. I learned so much about lighting, shooting in different environments, just really how to do “commercial” photography. I worked there five days a week and with my free time, I worked as an assistant for various other photographers around town. I met people constantly, made new connections, and shot as much as I possibly could. After a year and a half there, I went full-time freelance and did that for half a year. Eventually, a recruiter reached out to me about a gig at an in-house studio to be an assistant. I went in there and took the job, and that led to the role im currently in as a digital tech/retoucher doing advertising photography.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it hasn’t. It’s extremely hard to get business at first. There is a lot of competition in this field and you really have to stand out to make it. While working at the youth sports place, I wasn’t sure if that would lead to anything. But it’s all about getting your foot in the door, working hard and learning as much as you can. everything has a lesson.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I mainly shoot portraits, and I have a huge love for street photography. I shoot with a lot of local bands around town as well and create press kits for them. What sets my work apart is my use of color and editing skills. I have a huge passion for retouching and learn more and more every day. I’m most proud of my work with local bands and the ability to work with other creatives around Denver that positively contribute to the art and music scene.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Persistence. I wanted to quit a couple of times. It’s hard when you don’t make a lot of money, don’t have luck with getting the work you want, and it can be hard to feel like you’ll “make” it. The key is persistence and perseverance.

Contact Info:

• Website: jakecoxphoto.com
• Phone: 3039904957
• Email: jakecoxphoto@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakecoxphoto/

Image Credit:
Jake Cox Photo

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