Скачать или смотреть My first time...

This was the VERY first time I ever photographed a stranger.

It's hard to believe that this is where it all began... Almost one year ago, I ventured outside with my camera and it completely changed my life.

Me one year ago would never believe where I am today - Over 2 million followers, get to travel all over the world, and have collaborated with brands like Sony, Vessi, Adorama and Cirque du Soleil.

So why did I start in the first place?

I've always struggled with social anxiety, but for some reason the last few years it felt like my anxiety was getting worse.

So one weekend, I went out with my camera and offered free portraits to strangers.

I thought it would be a good way to tackle my social anxiety head-on, while practicing my photography, which I've always loved.

And boy oh boy, let me tell you… It was nerve-wrecking! lol.

As someone who shoots professionally for a living, walking up to complete strangers is a whole other ball game.

I walked around with my camera for HOURS, psyching myself out.

I almost got in my car and drove away lol.

Then I found this beautiful backdrop in Yaletown and decided I wasn’t leaving until I photographed someone.

It took every ounce of courage I had to finally ask someone…

… and that’s when I met Jayden.

I expected her to say no - or to laugh and think I’m a weirdo.

But instead, she said yes.

And she was incredibly warm, friendly & enthusiastic. She put me at ease within the first 10 seconds.

I don’t think I could’ve picked a better human.

(Bonus points: Turns out Jayden is also a model, so of course she nailed it haha)

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🔗 LINKS
My Camera Gear: https://justinveenema.com/kit
Presets: https://justinveenema.com/store/p/por...

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📸 CAMERA GEAR USED
Sony A74
Sony 85mm 1.8
Glimmerglass 1.0 Filter

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📍 Yaletown, Vancouver BC

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#yaletown #vancouver #portraitphotography #streetportraits #strangerportraits