The Juno Monique

Jalan Harris is rapidly becoming one of the most influential photographers of our generation.  Her body of work speaks for itself, a message that is impactful and dynamic in nature.

Jalan Harris, Self Portrait, by Juno's Photography

The creator of breathtaking images, Jalan is a young artist who excels in capturing the essence of natural beauty all around her.  Her foundation for creating works of photographic art comes from years spent drawing and writing poetry.  The once aspiring cartoonist now prepares to take on the world through the provocative art of photography as her essential niche.  It is her chosen field of focus as she now begins the journey toward the mastery of image making.  

Jalan, affectionately known as Lanni, describes her work as having a 'vintage look', explaining that she creates images based on the use of somewhat odd angles, and edits for the sometimes faded effect, using the additives of unfocused orbs of light, known as bokeh.  In this regard, her work is inspired by photography of the early to mid 20th century, when she believes that images possessed a most strong intense emotion.  Artistically, she says, "I like modern art, but am inspired by the past."

Although many would not agree, Jalan still considers her work to be very amateur, and she says that she still takes every opportunity to learn and grow and evolve as a photographic artist.  It was just a few years ago that she first ventured into the medium of photography as a novice, and under the guidance of a well established friend photographer, who she had modeled for.  She soon earned her own comfort level in being behind the lenses of her camera, by practicing on friends, experimenting, and shooting with what was available to her, namely, using sheets for backdrops, simple walls, and natural lighting.
  

Jalan Harris, Portrait, by Erykah Monique

Inspired by nature and beautiful people, "I am the photographer capturing what you want to show me."  She gravitates toward naturally beautiful models and beautiful natural scenes that have an underlying mystery or depth to them; as she sees it as a challenge to be able to bring it out.  A style of photography that aims to capture something artistically substantial and of relevance, even in its raw value, she looks for a highly valued message to come across in each photograph.  

This artist's fresh perspective is aided by her dynamic assertion of self confidence.  She has an awareness of self that is self assured and ultimately righteous.  Jalan feels that as an image maker, she has no responsibility to anyone but to be true to herself.  "If I inspire anyone to anything it would be to be themselves.  I know myself", she says.  Although shy and somewhat reserved, she is an outspoken character who knows her mind in who she is and what she wants, and believes in.  She says that she is unaware of others perception of her, and doesnt care what people think about how she chooses to live her life or to express herself.  "I do what I do."

The young powerhouse is a force to be reckoned with, and for 19 year old Jalan Harris of Juno's Photography, this is only the beginning.

Jalan Harris, Portrait, by Erykah Monique