We had the good fortune of connecting with Tariq Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tariq, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
As a photographer you’re often taking on multiple roles. Most times you’re a photographer, other times you’re acting as a business, director, stylist, curator, or even as a set designer. Finding balance is incredibly important, interestinly my balance has always been relatively the same because I’ve always had a devotion to not just my work but myself. I’ve always held multiple hobbies outside of my career. For example, I have an extreme devotion to my health and body. To prioritize that aspect of my life while balancing my work, I’m often meal prepping days ahead and leaving time slots within my days to exercise. It’s important as entrepreneurs that we keep a clear head space and to do that I believe it’s imperative that we find time to enjoy all aspects of our lives. If we’re giving proper attention to our hobbies and interests then we’ll be happier and that happiness carries over onto the business side of things.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a fashion and portrait photographer. That in itself is exciting! I wake up everyday and photograph new and interesting people and while the journey hasn’t been a breeze, It hasn’t been a struggle either. I feel as though I have a natural talent for interacting with and photographing people. However, my natural gifts have never clouded the fact that hard work and dedication are the true driving factors for success. For me, every photoshoot is a lesson. After every session I sit down with the work that I’ve created and analyze how to take my imagery to the next level. I think this has helped ease my path a bit as well as set me apart from other photographers. This process allows me to quickly and constantly increase the quality of my work. Through this my images have become a representation of myself, authentic, minimal, and emotive. I want the world to know me through my images.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d definitely start in Little Italy, I believe its become the beating heart of the San Diego experience. We’d walk around Little Italys farmers market, where we’d purchase delicious locally sourced fruit. From there we’d have a delicious brunch at Herb & Wood. You can’t enjoy San Diego properly without a trip to the beach, for me that beach would be La Jolla Shores. Although a bit overused in my opinion, I’d take them through Balboa Park, its architectuere and overall history is a must. For Dinner and drinks back to Little Italy where the choices are endless, you have everything from the posh steakhouse/whiskey experience of Born & Raised to the more rustic, playful seafood adventure that is Ironside.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The person who deserves the most credit for her endless encouragement and business knowledge is my girlfriend Emily Rodriguez. Emily has this rare talent where she can instantly pull you back to reality when things start to take a turn. Often times when you’re figuring out the next step for your business things can become foggy. She has great instincts and a strong sense of self and those traits often work as a beacon to help guide me through the fog. She’s fantastic!

Website: tariqjphotos.com

Instagram: itstariqjohnson

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