JM HOULE

{ Residence: Brooklyn, NY / Hometown: Hawaii Kai via Detroit / Age: 30 }

Jane Houle, proprietor of JM HOULE, is a fabulous photographer.  I admire Jane because she is NOT afraid to take risks, live life to the fullest, and is truly a great friend.  Enjoy the Q&A – rap lyrics included.

 

Born in Detroit? Grew up in Hawaii? Living in Brooklyn – what’s the story?

No, I’m not in the military. Just a haole that moves around a lot! My parents (both natives of Detroit) took our family on vacation to Hawai’i when I was 11 and shortly after decided to move there. A very unconventional move for two semi-conservative republican bankers. At the age of 15 I accompanied my dad on a business trip to New York City. Much like my parents immediate love for Hawai’i, I fell in lust with New York and after college, moved out here.

 

 

You made a huge transition from PR to Photography, what gives?

I didn’t set out from school to be a PR maven. It was quite simply the first job that was offered to me when I moved to New York and I turned out to be good at. After a few years though I was unhappy and uninspired. Other things in my life were changing and it seemed clear that this was also the time to change my career path. Photography had been a peripheral part of my life since high school, something that held my interest and challenged me, so I enrolled in classes at School of Visual Arts and began all over again.

 

 

Tell me about life as a photog?

I’m in love! It’s hard work but totally worth it.

 

 

Accomplishments you are proud of?

New York is financially hard and there’s also a lot of talented people here trying to do the same thing I am which maks the creative industry competitive and cutthroat. I’m just proud of having made it this far in a few short years and able to support myself. Being published in Harper’s Bazaar wasn’t half bad either…

 

 

Best thing about being 30?

Knowing exactly what I want and how to get it.

 

 

Do you have a secret talent you want to share?

I know every word of every pop song on the radio without ever having to really listen.

 

 

Where do you find inspiration?

It depends on my current interests and projects but I draw a lot from my personal travel and social experiences. And in general, I find myself inspired but the normal, everyday things that are often overlooked.

 

 

What do you do when you’re not working?

I run, a lot. Despite the poor air quality and angsty fixed gear bikers, New York is a great back drop for long runs.

 

 

Any fun projects we should look out for?

I just got back from traveling on tour with a band, Sundelles. In going through the film I noticed a story emerging surrounding the culture of touring, the lifestyle of the musicians, the venues, fans. The project is still in the editing phase but I’m excited to see where this goes.

 

 

Top travel destinations?

India, Vietnam and Hawai’i!

 

 

Career advice for those listening?

Do what makes you happy even if it isn’t the easiest, surest path. As Lil’ Wayne says “I’d rather be pushin’ flowers than to be in the pen sharin’ showers.”

 

**Hearts and Hugs to Jane!  And congrats on your first advertising gig!!!!