Meet Jamie Olguin | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Olguin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamie, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
Maya Angelou once said ” You have to have your own back.” and it has been my source of my determination and growth! Making chess moves for the bigger picture has always been my strategy. Each project I work on is towards the goal of expanding myself as a person and artist. I want to mentor and provide resources to other growing artists. When doubt and imposter syndrome infests the brain, having the will power and way-power to fight beyond it is a continuous cycle I find myself in and knowing my worth and capabilities has always helped me persevere. Little Den Studio will soon grow from an instagram page to a physical creative space!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
In my work, I strive to capture my subjects inner light. By creating a safe space to take risks and learn body language, I want my subjects to take something away from the experience on top of feeling taken care of. I began taking photos with friends in our favorite outfits growing up in Gilbert/Chandler. From there it evolved as a way to escape the bubble of the East Valley to explore the parts of this state I never got to see. Running through rivers, climbing up mountains, and dancing under waterfalls, photography became the gateway to falling in love with the state I was so ambitiously trying to leave. After finding the beauty in the state and beauty in my community, I began to offer services professionally to share my love with others. Working with more creatives in college, and sharing the milestone moments of my friends lives, I began working with bands and weddings (the newest endeavor) I am still in the early stages of refining my business and brand but I am grateful for every lesson learned along the way. From backing up hard drives and SD cards to getting assistance when assistance is needed, I am excited to continue learning whats to come ahead in my career. I

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
To start the adventure, I would suggest grabbing a coffee and croissant from Essence Bakery, then make our way to on of my favorite shops Camelback Antiques, Brass Armadillo, Curious Nature, Vision Quest, and/or Shirts & Things. Then for lunch we would grab takeout from Green New American Vegetarian and take it to Papago Park for where we would then walk around the park for a little. Once we got refreshed, I would take them out to dinner to one of my favorite spots like Valentine, Cherry Blossom, Pedal Haus, or Postinos. To top off the night, I would then make way to The Pemberton, Central Records, or Valley Bar. For other days, I would show them my more niche spots like Stinkweeds, Sas Fabrics, Whitfill Nursery, Bernies Beads, Bookmans, and Zia Records! There would be plenty of sunsets watched and nature explored!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to shoutout Molly Shenck with Grey Box Collective. As a Director, Collaborator, Creative, and Friend, Molly has been apart of my journey in many different roles. I began working with GBC as a performer back in 2018 in “Out of Hiding”. From performer to photographer I always find myself connecting with my craft in unique ways. Discovering different approaches to capture the human spirit and light through their movement and connection has been a huge help in my growth as a photographer. Molly has directed some of the most impactful experiences I’ve been able to capture and it is always a pleasure getting to work together. I am always and forever grateful!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/Little_den_studio

Image Credits
Taken by Jamie Olguin (myself)