Hi, I’m Jet and I’m the Founder and Creative Director of Jet Black Squares. I’m based in Hertfordshire, but run sessions in London, Brighton, Oxford and Cambridge too.
What led you to create Jet Black Squares?
Since the advent of the smartphone camera, and with the technology within those cameras getting better and better, I realised that everyone has the ability to be a photographer, not just those who can afford all the ‘professional' equipment. I discovered a gap in the market to show people how to unleash the power of their smartphone camera, and with a few simple tips and tricks, create stunning photography. I am a true believer that the kit you have doesn’t determine the quality of the work you produce. After all, I could have the same oven as Jamie Oliver and I would still burn water!! Jet Black Squares takes the ‘kit and cost’ out of photography, making it accessible to everyone, no matter what phone you have, no matter what age you are, and no matter what demographic you come from.
What inspires you in your work?
I love seeing people’s faces when they take a cracking shot, or seeing Instagram accounts flourish after people have come on a masterclass, or a teenager saying ‘I didn’t know I could do that’ (that’s probably the best one to be honest!). Seeing the pure joy and pride when people take an amazing shot is what makes it all worthwhile.
Where is your favourite place to photograph?
My favourite place to photograph is anywhere in London, I know that doesn’t narrow it down very well does it, but it’s true. London is an ever-changing canvas to photograph whether that’s a physical change or a seasonal one. I also love spotting the unusual things, and taking photos of things that wouldn’t normally jump out at you as being a typical shot. I went through a phase of photographing abandoned chairs, for example! I think one of my most meaningful projects was my Lockdown London series, which documents the empty streets over the past 2 years.
What do you like to do in your down time?
Apart from sitting on the sofa in my PJs watching Saturday Morning Kitchen and eating my body weight in chocolate, I love just mooching about with my phone. I also go out and find alternative locations for my Smartphone Safari’s - and especially to check there is a suitable cafe or bar near the end to do our editing in!
Who has been one of the most interesting people you have taught on a smartphone safari?
I love my Snap & Chat sessions, which are free mental health session I run in my local area. To see how people come to life when they get the chance to chat with other people, how getting out in the fresh air awakens something inside them, and of course, the pride they feel when they take an amazing shot. These last two years have been tough on everyone in one way or another, and if we can help in a tiny way, then it is so worth it.
Another proud moment for me was when one of my Duke of Edinburgh Award students went on to win the Youth Urban category in the Young Landscape Photographer of the Year with a shot she took on one of our sessions. She then went on to win another two global competitions, as well as gain some magazine covers too. I was a very proud teacher!
What is your number one smartphone photography tip?
Always carry a bottle of water with you to create a flawless reflection. Oh, and turn your camera upside down too!
Where do you see Jet Black Squares 12 months from now?
2022 is the year Jet Black Squares will be expanding, and we are looking for people to run JBS all over the country (and eventually the world!). This is very exciting, and also slightly scary, but I believe in the JBS brand, and want to share it far and wide.
If you would like to get in touch with me about our Safari’s, corporate masterclasses, DoE classes or any other talks or sessions you might be interested in running. Please do get in touch at jet@jetblacksquares.com