Hometown: Kingsport, TN
Major/Minor: Electrical Engineering/Business Administration
Year: Sophomore
Other Organization Involvement: Club Ultimate Frisbee (A Team), Photography Club, Community Council with RHA, Alpha Lambda Delta, Calhoun Honors College, President’s List
Favorite Clemson Tradition: Band Pregame Shows in the Amphitheater
How did you first get started in photography?
On a vacation with my family, I was put in charge of the camera. It just kind of went from there. I began to photograph friends and my ultimate Frisbee team. When I came to Clemson, I joined the photography club.
Why did you decide to start your own business?
Although I do not have a registered business, I do some commissioned work as well as some work for my website. I also work with the Clemson Athletic Department as a paid photographer. Doing professional work helped me improve as a photographer, as well as meet other professional photographers. Also it’s nice to make money doing something I love.
What do you enjoy most about the art of photography?
I like to see people’s reactions to photography. Most people don’t get high quality photos of action shots of themselves. Personally, I like the creative aspect of photography, and it doesn’t take a lot of time, which is a good thing. There are tons of resources out there, and I like that it isn’t something academic or athletic because it mixes things up.
What kind of subjects/events have you photographed?
I play a lot of sports, so I’m often around a lot of opportunities for sports action shots. I take photos of my friends as well as athletes and fans. I shot with the photography club at a few football games this year. I have done headshots for LinkedIn. I also have taken photos for Tiger Dancers. I really like trying new things. I did a car/fire photo-shoot where I safely photographed fire around my car. Those photos turned out really good. Oh, and I like to photograph puppies.
How would you describe the experience of photographing games in Death Valley? (ie: how did you get to?)
With the photography club, members get the chance to go onto the field. We rotate two field passes throughout the season. Now, I get to do it through the work experience with the athletic department.
It’s different than being in the stands because you are kind of removed from it all. You don’t know much about what is going on during the game. I could only see if the players were running at me or if I caught the recaps on the screens. It’s very fast-paced, but I really enjoy it all. It’s also neat to be around other professional photographers and see what they are doing.
What is your favorite location on campus to shoot? Off-campus?
For portraits, I like to shoot inside Death Valley or the President’s Park. The botanical gardens are also nice. Off campus, I like this abandoned mill. It’s a cool juxtaposition with the grungy background and pretty people. Parks are also really nice when you have nice weather.
Do you have a favorite photo you have taken?
No, but for each type I could pick a few favorite photographs. However, it changes week to week.
How has your involvement in photography helped to build your Clemson story?
I have met quite a few friends through photography. Taking pictures at football games is a unique experience I wouldn’t have otherwise gotten. I’ve also had passes to meet important people on campus such as President Clements.
Where do you hope to take your photography business after college?
I definitely want to keep it as a hobby and stay active in it. I would probably photograph locally. It would be cool to mix it in with my real job if possible, but since I’m in electrical engineering, that could be difficult. I just plan to keep doing cool things and taking pictures as I go through life.
Instagram: @jakabo27
Check out Jacob’s website for more of his photographs: www.jacobathompson.com