Today we’d like to introduce you to Justus Speed.
Hi Justus, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My interest in photography started when I was a kid growing up in the early 2000s. I was always surrounded by cameras—my parents used Polaroids and disposable film cameras to capture family moments, and that feeling stuck with me. Eventually, they gifted me my very own digital camera—which I still use to this day on outings with friends and family, just like my parents once did. I used it constantly to capture the fun adventures and shenanigans my cousins and I got into as kids.
In high school, I took classes in both fine art and photography. At the time, my main focus was drawing—art has always been a major part of who I am—but no matter what, I always found myself holding a camera. My cousins and I even made skits for YouTube, and I was often behind the camera, directing the shots.
When I briefly attended college, I majored in graphic design while continuing to take photography classes. A few years later, I began pursuing freelance art professionally. At first, photography was just a hobby—but over time, it began to turn into something more. Before I knew it, it had become the front-runner, unexpectedly taking center stage in my creative career.
Today, I’m a freelance photographer steadily building my client base and working toward turning this into a full-time career. For the past year and a half, I’ve grown through hands-on experience—learning from fellow artists, seasoned professionals, and the lessons that come with every shoot. I always say, “Every shot creates a better you.” To me, that means growth comes from showing up, staying curious, and continuously improving.
My goal is to keep evolving—not just as a photographer, but as an artist. I believe in standing out by staying true to yourself and letting your work reflect that. Keep creating, keep trying, and you’ll find your way.
Being part of the Baltimore community has only fueled that journey further—I’m proud to grow my craft here and connect with others doing the same.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many creatives who take the leap into freelance work, I’ve faced my share of challenges—especially around stability, self-doubt, and balancing passion with the pressure to turn it into a business.
In the beginning, one of the biggest struggles was figuring things out on my own—navigating pricing, building trust with clients, and learning how to run the business side of things while still growing artistically. There were moments when I questioned whether I was good enough or if I was heading in the right direction. I didn’t have a blueprint or mentor to follow, so everything came through trial, error, and staying committed even during slow or uncertain periods.
At the same time, I’ve been working full-time at Amazon while trying to grow my photography business. On top of that, I design T-shirts for my fellow Amazonian’s, help cut grass for family members, support relatives with all kinds of tasks, and do my best to be a loving and present uncle to my six wonderful little blessings who keep me motivated. I also try to fit in time for the gym, as well as carve out space for my friends and loved ones when I can.
Balancing all of that while still creating and growing isn’t easy—but every challenge has taught me something. Whether it’s been a difficult client experience or a personal creative block, I try to take it as a lesson. I still face obstacles—but now, I face them with more clarity, patience, and confidence than when I first started.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a freelance photographer focused on capturing genuine moments, strong emotion, and creative expression through visual storytelling. My work spans portraits, lifestyle shoots, travel photography, creative concepts, and car photography. I enjoy blending bold color, mood, and movement to bring each vision to life—while letting the subject or scene speak for itself.
I’m known for creating a comfortable, natural atmosphere during shoots. Whether it’s someone’s first time in front of the camera or they’re used to being photographed, my goal is to bring out something real in every session. I want people to feel seen, not just posed—and that connection always shows in the final images.
Car photography has become a major part of my work. I recently did a shoot for my dad and edited the photos as a Father’s Day gift, framing them for him. He was genuinely happy to receive such a personal shoot from his son—and even more excited to take the photos to work and show them off to everyone. That moment meant a lot to both of us—and reminded me just how far I’ve come. Looking back at where I was a year and a half ago, I can see real growth, and that’s something I’m truly proud of.
Travel photography is another passion of mine. I love capturing different environments, cultures, and spontaneous moments that can’t be recreated. It’s taught me to stay present and creative—even in unpredictable settings.
I also design T-shirts, draw, and weave visual design principles into everything I do. That creative crossover gives me a broader perspective, allowing me to approach photography with a unique artistic lens.
What sets me apart is the personal care and effort I put into every project. I’ve built this path from the ground up while balancing full-time work, family responsibilities, and ongoing self-improvement. There’s real purpose and growth behind what I create—and people feel that. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but even more excited for what’s next.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is making a meaningful impact—whether through my art, how I show up for my family, or the way I support the people around me. I want the things I create to last beyond the moment they were made. A good photo should tell a story, spark a feeling, or capture something someone can truly hold onto. That’s what drives me.
Connection matters, too—both with the people I photograph and in my everyday life. Whether I’m doing a photoshoot, designing a T-shirt for Amazon, or helping a relative out, I try to be intentional in everything I do. I’ve seen how far a small gesture can go, and I believe consistency, kindness, and effort say more about you than anything else.
And of course, growth matters to me. I’m always striving to become a better version of myself—not just creatively, but personally. I remind myself that every step—even the tough ones—shapes who I am and where I’m headed.
At the end of the day, I want to look back and know I gave it my all—and hopefully made a difference for someone along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://juscapture.pixieset.com/booking/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_juscapture_?igsh=MTNsa2t5a2hnY2dhYw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
