A snapshot of the life of a student photographer

Chauncey Figgures shares his experiences as a student, a photographer, and an entrepreneur.

“I’ve been doing photography for about five years,” Chattanooga photographer Chauncey Figgures said. “It truly is amazing to me.”

Chauncey had to learn to balance his time as both a full-time student and full-time photographer.

“My main focus is editing for a full day, shooting a few days, and going to class,” he said. “I try to keep it organized and balanced. Sometimes it can be challenging, sometimes easier, it really just depends on week to week.”

Chauncey also attributed his success to the generosity of others in his life.

“Three people that helped me to jump start my business career was Vince Stallings, Mrs. Cynthia Smith, and Harlem Brooks who helped jump start me into my studio works,” he acknowledged.

Chauncey emphasized how important it was for him to stay in contact with his seniors.

“I keep in touch with photography mentors also to get tips and tricks, how to configure my camera, and budgeting,” he said. “I thank God for them because they always had my back and want to help me become a better person and a better photographer.”

Chauncey also shared a few ways that beginners can start their own career in photography.

“Get people who have been in the photography business,” he said, “because they have more experience and they can give you tips to become a better photographer.”

“The second thing is to have a plan,” he continued. “Photography is a competition, so to speak. In my personal experience, if you have a plan and photography mentors, it will help you a whole lot.”

“Don’t be afraid to get a beginner camera too,” he added.

Chauncey also shared the importance of reaching out and accepting help from others with more experience.

“There are so many people that helped me,” he said. “Mr. Billy Weeks, a photojournalism professor at UTC, really helped me as well. I thank him so much.”

Lastly, “if you’re a beginner, don’t be afraid to reach out to me,” he said.

Keep up with Chauncey on Instagram, view more of his work on his photography account, and learn more about him and his business on his website!