We recently had the chance to connect with Jahin Patwary and have shared our conversation below.
Jahin, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I’m an early riser and early sleeper. I start my day with a 30-minute walk, followed by breakfast and reviewing my to-do list. I’m usually at my workstation by morning, focusing on deep work and learning before noon. In the afternoon, I handle operational tasks and plan for the next day. I like to fit in another walk in the evening and wind down with some fiction reading before bed.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi my name is Jahin. I’m a photographer/videographer based in the DMV area as MayJahFilms of instagram.com/mayjahfilms. What makes the work fulfilling for me is seeing clients relive their happiest moments through the memories that I capture. I’ve been in business for over 5 years and have captured all kinds of weddings around the area. I enjoy both photography and videography and I’m always looking to improve my craft, so I find a lot of inspiration when I see other creatives using new techniques to bring their work to life.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I can’t name just one person—I owe my values around hard work to many: family, friends, teachers, mentors, and colleagues. The truth is, you rarely achieve anything alone; seeking help and learning to delegate are essential. That said, self-driven learning is equally important. Deep work sharpens the mind—the hardest part is often just getting started.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I wouldn’t say wounds exactly, but COVID was a defining time in my life. I lost several family members and friends, which deeply reminded me how fragile and brief life is. It shifted my mindset—pushing me to pursue what I’m passionate about while I can. I also came to truly value the lasting power of photos and videos; they become priceless links to the people and moments we hold dear, especially when they’re all we have left. In terms of healing, it gave me a renewed drive to make the most of my time and push myself each day.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I believed wealth equaled happiness. While money does provide comfort, I’ve seen many trade their health for wealth—only to later spend that wealth trying to regain their health. Now, I value time just as much as money, especially the time spent earning it. Hustling is important, but so is enjoying and finding meaning in the work you do.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I think about this question pretty often. I would probably stop or minimize most things and spend a lot of my time with my family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mayjahfilms.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayjahfilms
