The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

SHE may have only been fourteen years old, but Jalan Harris knew she had a calling in the world photography. In 2006 she was drawn to the art form by her fascination with the world around her.

Jalan’s high school nickname “Juno” later became her artistic alias. As a professional photographer, Juno said she learned the trade by liking and looking at things most people choose to not pay attention to. And she always wanted to make a record of what she saw.

“I had a friend who really aroused my interest in photography. I learned first hand from John Zhang who was a teen like myself, but also my superior. Initially I modelled for him but I was just itching to get behind the camera and do what he did. Then during high school my Physics teacher Manu Sebastian, who also practiced photography, educated me in the technical aspects of the camera. So I didn’t have formal training per-say but I was blessed to work with such individuals who shaped me into the person who I am today,” said the photographer.

Juno said her work is inspired by nature, exotic faces and art. Over the years she has gained inspiration from a number of photographers, such as Saddi Khali, Bahamas’ very own Elena Kalis, Neef Fresh Photography, Lyndah Wells of Grand Bahama, Peter Dean Rickards, Lara Jade, Zhang Jingna and Nirrimi Joy Hakanson.       

One of Juno’s most recent projects was creative photography for the new sun-inspired jewellery line by Khepera’s Sun. Juno’s relationship with nature comes to light in the Khepera’s Sun catalogue, which places models in a number of outdoor spaces.

Before 2008, Juno said her photography was mainly for pleasure. Eventually she started shooting at parties and collaborating with other photographers and artists.

“After accumulating a decent number of fans I started a Facebook page, which has helped me greatly. Work still isn’t as consistent as I’d like it to be but I always tend to get business when I really need it,” said Juno.

The 21 year old said she is hoping to one day move from freelancing to full-time editorial photography and photojournalism. She hopes this can also lead to selling prints.

“I usually incorporate natural hair models when I’m shooting just for me. I shoot girls of any size and skin tone. I’ve noticed that a lot of models we see in the media are generalized into this one image and I want to show different types of beauty out there. It’s to help girls feel happy about themselves,” said Juno, speaking about her unique approach.

Aside from photography Juno said she enjoys drawing, a hidden talent that not many people know about. She also enjoys blogging, fashion and creating mixed media compositions.

Juno is currently pursuing an associates degree in art and design at the College of the Bahamas. In the process, he is discovering new mediums that inspire her.

“I eventually want to get into mosaic art as well. My overall dream is to be an illustrator or a comic strip artist. I just want to do everything,” she said.