lilD: Jayi Kemp sees the world through a special lens
Written by lilD | | lild@toledofreepress.comJay-Z would probably never refer to himself as a developing artist. And P Diddy probably wouldn’t consider himself an aspiring producer. So considering the accomplishments of Toledo photographer Jayi Kemp, one must wonder why he regards himself as an amateur photographer.
Kemp does not just take pictures. He sits down with clients prior to the photo shoot, gets to know them, listens to their ideas, then allows the vision to enter his mind. Kemp’s photography is the equivalent of a successful rapper trying to get back to his/her roots. The artist will go back to his/her old neighborhood, meet up with old friends, and whatever else is necessary to regain that mindset of pure hunger.
Like a lot of great musicians, Jayi Kemp got his start in the church. He wasn’t singing hymns; he was recording them. His uncle probably didn’t even realize the fire that had been ignited when he gave his nephew a camcorder to record services. But it wasn’t long before Kemp had begun buying his own equipment and following his dream.
Having studied photography at Columbus State, and now Herzing in Toledo, Kemp “wouldn’t even equate talent into photography,” and said there is “no way to advance without some type of studying.”
The studying doesn’t have to be done in the classroom. A rapper like Tupac never had to study any hip hop artists to know how to put words together, but his real life experiences were a great teacher. In contrast, an artist like Rick Ross studied other artists’ lifestyles and backgrounds to build his image. Jayi Kemp has both “street smarts” and formal education, and it puts him in a better position.
Regardless of how talented you are, nobody likes an arrogant person. Not only is Jayi Kemp humble, but his approach to business is unique. Kemp isn’t just trying to take people’s money: “I care about the people I come in contact with. I want them to know they have a friend.”
He will also refuse your service if the level of professionalism is not acceptable. Kemp realizes that perception is reality, and he does not want his name attached to anything that will taint his image. Even his Facebook page is G-Rated.
Everyone knows it takes money to make money, and Kemp has no issue investing in his career. He has top-of-the-line equipment, and a brand-new studio at 4428 Secor Road that has a reception area and a large studio space.
Kemp is turning into a one-man conglomerate, offering all types of photography services, from indoor shots to business cards to concept imagery.
So with the success he has experienced, why would Kemp refer to himself as an amateur?
“I refer to myself as an amateur so that I can remain humble.” As Kemp stated this, his phone rang. It was a client who called to tell him “You did such an amazing job. I love the pictures!”
Kemp’s work can be found on his website, jayikemp.com.
Tags: Jayi Kemp, lilD, The Word I Heard
