Jaren Stephens
Jaren’s a visual storyteller, photographer, and entrepreneur pursuing his dreams from Atlanta, GA.
Driven by impact and motivated to make a difference, Jaren’s been building a legacy for generations to come. Through innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, Jaren is showing others how anything God inspires is possible.
Whether Jaren’s shooting for a music artist or billboard spot, he does it all with a heart filled with passion and a mind set on change. Pushing the envelope and rewriting the narrative, Jaren’s creative and entrepreneurial pursuits have already shaken things up, opening doors for others to walk through.
What dream are you currently turning into reality?
The dream I’m currently turning into a reality is building a creative facility in my hometown. It’s there where we’ll teach teens how to nurture their creative abilities & skills into a successful entrepreneur.
With the overall goal of impacting the youth, we’ll be reaching the community through creativity first.
When did you first realize you discovered your dream?
I first discovered my dream when I was in high school and tried joining the yearbook club - I got denied due to being a class clown. I understood, but it gave me more fuel to actually turn this dream into a reality.
During my freshman year in college (2015), I started my photography business. That eventually led me to taking over my college campus as the best street photographer and Photo editor of the University Newspaper/Magazine.
How does your faith go hand in hand with pursuing your dream?
My faith goes hand in hand with my dreams because I emphasize healthy habits as they upkeep the lifestyle of staying in tune with the Most High. Healthy habits are necessary to stay on track. For example - Eating good food, praying, reading devotionals, and staying active. They help you become a better translator for His Kingdom.
What’s one or two practical steps you take to keep moving forward?
Structure is key to my process as it allows me to dive deeper with a stronger focus on creating. Organization is first with my hard drive, then followed by customized workspaces in Adobe Creative Cloud.
Another practical step that always helps me move forward is cooking. Truly focusing on the process of cooking helps me let go of control. I’m gifted in the kitchen & it’s a place where flow is key.
Anytime my head gets cloudy, I go in there like it’s a laboratory and let God guide me. Cooking is my way to let go & let God. I’ve fallen in love with the process so much, I’ve created a food blog called Twarchive5.
What encouragement would you share with someone who’s going after their dream?
When it comes to your business, always keep moving forward and stay away from what’s comfortable. Growth isn’t easy, but it’s always worth it.
In addition to that - Your journey is less about the trophy and more about the overall journey. It’s about the steps you take to get there.