Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Bonney.
Hi Patrick, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am Patrick Bonney, a Memphis-based photographer who was born and nurtured in Ghana- Africa. I am the youngest amongst three siblings who can attest to the fact that I am the most creative; the artistic one. I came from humble beginnings. Growing up, I have always been a lover of the Sciences and the Arts. I started by drawing cartoon characters in my sketchbooks.
During the early 2000s in Ghana, digital cameras were luxury devices only the ‘rich’ could afford, but fortunately for me, I gained my first exposure to photography in the year 2002 when my Dad bought a film camera (Pentax IQzoom 120mi ). I couldn’t afford to develop the negatives, so I found an interesting way of telling my stories through painting and drawing what I saw within my surroundings. It was then that Art became therapeutic for me and I called it my escape route from loneliness.
A few years later, I lost connection with my artistic life when I decided to fully focus on pursuing my career in the sciences as a Plant Breeder. After receiving my Bachelor’s degree I felt the urge to reconnect with the arts. Having several years of no practice, I lost touch with drawing and painting. However, I knew the camera was the only gear to help me tell the stories I had envisioned. Again, fortune came upon me. I was introduced to digital photography in 2009 by a few friends who were already in the ‘game’.
Despite not owning a camera, I was determined to master the craft. I decided to rent and borrow Digital Single Lens Reflect (DSLR) cameras from colleagues to practice. I spent hours researching, reading, and also watching photography-related YouTube videos on my phone. To get better, I opted to serve as an assistant to some of my photographer friends just to learn how to properly handle a camera, compose, and light subjects. I started shooting with a friend’s Canon Rebel T3I but I later switched to Nikon d5500.
I make efforts to explore several genres in photography which helped me to develop a niche that later transformed into my style. As a self-taught photographer, I began as a hobbyist taking photos at local events, portraits of family and friends, but later decided to turn my hobby into a business. In 2016, I officially started Gillbonney Photography. Shortly after launching my business as a freelance photographer, people started reaching out to me to book sessions.
I would say photography opened the door for me to network with people from a plethora of backgrounds. I have had the opportunity to work on several local and international projects. Gillbonney Photography currently renders the following services: Single and family portraits, engagement and weddings photos, product and architectural shoots.
The vision of Gillbonney Photography is to mentor and train photography enthusiasts who want to advance their passion into a profession but lack the drive to follow their dreams. The beginning of greatness is unpredictable; therefore, we will not despise small beginnings… start with whatever camera you have even if it’s a cell phone.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey as a freelance photographer has not been an easy one. Just as every creative or entrepreneur faces challenges, I equally have my fair share of these challenges associated with the business. I started as a hobbyist while pursuing my graduate degree. My difficult moment was combining my academics along with business (photography).
Marketing my brand in a new location has been a hurdle; winning new clients amidst the competition is very difficult. I have been rejected severally by potential clients who reach out to inquire about or book me for my services. Through these challenges, I have become stronger and wiser. But I also learned new ways of making clients comfortable and satisfied with my work.
I would say I take the bull by its horn when faced with such adversities.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a portrait/wedding/architectural photographer. But I’m popularly known for my portrait work. Aside from my lighting technique what sets me apart from other creatives in photography is my ability to translate my envision(s) into reality.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
“Life is like a camera focus on what is important capture good times, develop from the negatives and if they don’t work out take another shot” this has been my mantra throughout my journey has a creative. I also learned how to express these three key traits in my journey.
1. Patience.
2. Focus.
3. Shooting (mastering the craft).
Pricing:
- Outdoor portraits sessions start at $250
- Indoor portrait sessions start at $ 200
- Weddings start at $250/ hr
- Product shoot starts at $100/30min
Contact Info:
- Email: gillbonneyphotos@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/bonneys
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/gillbonneyphotography
- Twitter: @gillbonney
Image Credits
@Gillbonneyphotos
