We had the good fortune of connecting with F. Tiffany Fleming and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi F. Tiffany, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Everyone takes risks. Some smaller than others but nonetheless it’s still a risk.
I truly believe taking risks is what lead me to where I am today as a person and as an artist. I risked certainty for uncertainty and I’m grateful for it.
You can choose to live a normal basic life and be content with it or you can take risks that make average moments in life absolutely incredible…
I’ll always choose the road less traveled, I’ll always crave life quenching experiences and seek thrills over predictability.
We’ve got one life, one shot and taking risks is the difference between being alive and actually living.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I just want to roam freely, meet rad people and shoot dope content.
I love to create. I have a million thoughts a day about how I can create images and what it would take to bring them into fruition. It’s both my downfall and my blessing. I physically and mentally can not make every thought or idea come to life, but lord knows I try and that’s why I always at any given moment have a million projects and half finished tasks going on…
I’m very passionate about my brand, my style of photography and how I showcase my imagery. I’ve been told by multiple people that they can spot my work amongst a sea of other photographers work and that’s so damn satisfying to hear. I’ve put in the work to make my photographs very signature to me as an artist and it’s amazing to know that it shows.
Anything worth anything is never easy. My road to being a published photographer was definitely uphill with twists and sharp turns! But I’m grateful for it all. I’ve learned so much and I’ve grown in ways I’d never imagined possible. Overcoming those challenges and set backs are doable when you start with being true to yourself and focusing on your purpose. I’m a believer of doors opening easily when your on the right path.
I’ve learned that when you stray from the path you’re suppose to be on, then things become difficult and those experiences don’t feel welcoming or places don’t feel comfortable. That’s when you have to be open to seeing those signs so you can adjust your course and get back on the right path.
If there’s anything I can say to anyone who was even slightly interested in my story, it would be this: I wasted too much time chasing something that was never for me in hopes of making people who don’t make a difference in my life proud. It took some work, but now I know I’m worthy of happiness and success and it didn’t come in the form of a college degree, or a CEO position, or even elements of someone’s else’s dreams. I make art, I create, I live boundless and limitless because I chose to stay true to myself. Whatever sets your soul on fire and makes you feel most alive, chase it to the ends of the earth and be present for even the tiniest of moments.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My bestie is my husband. He knows me inside and out. We’re attached at the hip as we co-own our secondary business and often shoot alongside each other as a photo/ video duo. We would definitely be hoping on a plane heading to somewhere tropical to try all the local food and just relax!!!! Don’t think about anything but just soak up each other’s company and be present.
Now, my childhood friend of 25 plus years who I consider more of a sister…. we’re definitely hitting the beach boardwalk, riding bikes or skating on our quads thinking we’re young again and going to roscoes and ordering that scrumptious and iconic chicken and waffles (lemme get the #21 special with a chicken breast, side waffle, scoop of Mac and cheese and sunset to drink, on everything that my order every single time)
I love checking out local scenes, hanging out with good company with people who are on the same wave length. I love surrounding myself with creators and being creative. Hanging out, playing some good music, and just vibin’ is my total scene.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my journey and success to my family. My husband has always been my biggest cheerleader even when I didn’t see my worth at the beginning and he reminds me when I sometimes struggle with it from time to time. My children have always been my “why”. They’ve inspired me and motivated me to be the best version of myself and they’ve always believed in me.
Website: www.Jekalophotography.com
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/jekalophotography
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jekalophotography
Other: Co-owner & Creator of The Counterfeit Wedding Curated styled shoots for any level photographer/ videographer. www.instagram.com/thecounterfeitwedding Co-Creator and Editor for the Counterfeit Wedding Magazine launching in late 2021.
Image Credits
Bio Photo taken by Gilded Photo, edited by me. Model in last picture is Miranda