1. Nikki: For the people who don’t know you, or are familiar with your career; tell us exactly what you do, and how long you’ve been doing this?

Duane: “I’m Duane Jones, well Antoinne Duane Jones. A former high school marketing teacher turned professional photographer. Just over 13 ½ years ago I started out in the genre of fashion photography way out in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, I lived in Fayetteville, North Carolina for college so I ultimately ended up back there after moving from Myrtle Beach but now reside in the Atlanta, Georgia area. My corporation Antoinne Duane Jones Media specializes in fashion photography but do just about all genres of photography such as: event, sports, commercial, senior portraits and more.”

2. Nikki: In this age of technology and social media, it’s hard to keep a low profile. Considering how you’re recognized for your contributions in the community/world: How have you managed to keep a low profile?

Duane: “In this age of technology, I keep a high and low profile. I’m known for my quality of work and the overall experience you get when you bring in ADJ Media. So on a professional level, constantly putting out quality work is a major plus. Keeping up with social media, especially Instagram and Facebook has been instrumental to the company’s success. Last but not least, just treating people the right way leads to positive recognition. As far as a low profile goes, that is at my discretion. For example, everyone may not know that I am a single father but that is by choice. Choosing to keep your private life just that helps keep personal matters low key. There is a distinct difference between socialite Duane and homebody dad Antoinne.”

3. Nikki: Tell us one thing that most people wouldn’t know is a challenge for you?

Duane: “The one thing that is a challenge for me honestly is meeting new people or business colleagues. Again, my personal life is very private so finding opportunities to meet people when I’m typically at home if not at a gig presents some issues.”

4. Nikki: How have you overcome this challenge, and what methods do you practice to get through it?

Duane: “I overcome this challenge by forcing myself to get out and about. You can find me at a local Panera bread or cafe/coffee shop during the day just so I can have the opportunity to bump into new folks.”

5. Nikki: What valuable piece of advice would you give the average person that knows their passion is the same as yours?

Duane: “The biggest advice I can give someone with a passion for photography is to constantly stay learning and surround yourself with a real & honest mentor. Technology changes constantly so you must stay ahead of the tech curve in order to flourish in this career field. Also, you must be around someone that knows the business and will cut it to you straight. My mentor will tell me if I put out some subpar work but he will always tell me what could have been done better. Our family and friends are just going to like everything we do because they love us but love doesn’t pay bills! Honesty does! If you receive honest feedback you should grow and that growth fosters financial increase!”  

6. Nikki: What can IGC (Innergchic) energizers expect to see from you soon?

Duane: “In the near future, you can expect the level & quality of production to increase!! We are moving into a new season of favor and the people that we shoot; along with the concepts, are just leveling up!!”