Spotlights
Spotlight on Creativity November 2008
November’s spotlight on creativity is local photographer Whitney Thomas. After earning a degree in Engineering and spending 11 years in corporate sales and marketing, Whitney decided to pursue his passion and become a fashion photographer.
As the music scene began to explode in Philadelphia, Whitney expanded his clientele to include music. Whitney has worked with top music artists including Will Smith, The Roots, Smokey Robinson, Faith Evans, Jill Scott and Robin Thicke, to name a few. In addition, Whitney has published photographs in People, Vibe, Ebony, Essence and O at Home, and notes that he even photocopied the paycheck he received from Oprah.
Whitney’s most recent addition to his portfolio is mastering the art of shooting food. TV Chef G. Garvin’s book “Dining In,” which was recently published, features Whitney’s photography skills.
Your name:
Whitney Thomas
Firm/company:
Whitney Thomas Photographer
Occupation:
Photographer
Current Location:
Philadelphia
Hometown:
Philadelphia
Favorite Philadelphia neighborhood:
North Philly is where I’m from so I have to represent for my neighborhood. Center City is cool though too.
Best advice you've ever been given:
If you help others become successful, success will find you. Simple but true, Russell Simmons talks about this concept in his book Do You. Not sure where he heard it but we agree and we both approve this message. Maybe I should write a book?
Your favorite thing about living in the Philadelphia Region:
Besides the music scene the passion of the people can’t be touched. Whatever Philadelphians do they do it 110%. Just ask the visitors from other cities at an Eagles game.
Your favorite thing about working in the Philadelphia Region:
Very few degrees of separation between the people, you can reach anyone you need. Not always the best thing for singles out mingling but great for business.
How would you market the Philadelphia Region to professionals outside the region?
It’s such a diverse city, you can find whatever you need - from the people to the culture to varied areas of expertise, [Philadelphia has] it all. And we respect hard work; [if you] you give your best we’ll show you love. It also doesn’t hurt that we’re so close to New York and D.C. (just leave the jerseys at home, please, I’m begging you).
What advice would you give to young professionals trying to break into your industry?
Focus on developing your talent and delivering the best possible results to your clients. Once you’ve achieved excellence in your field the money will take care of itself. Mental toughness is also critical… photography is not an easy business so you need that Philadelphia toughness. Finally when it gets too hard (and it will), believe in yourself, you have to have Faith.
To learn more about Whitney and view is portfolio, please visit http://whitneythomas.com/