Today we’d like to introduce you to Vasia Johnson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Hi, I’m a 23-year-old photographer whose journey began unexpectedly at Harding High School when I was just 16. What started as a simple elective class turned into a life-changing discovery I had a passion for photography. I began taking photos for school assignments, sports games, and senior portraits for my friends. Before I realized it, people were taking notice of my work, and I saw that I could actually turn this into something bigger, a real career.
I began using social media as my creative outlet and marketing tool. I gathered a group of girls to model for me, and together we created powerful group and solo projects—whether in public locations or in my aunt and uncle’s basement, which I turned into a makeshift DIY studio. As word spread and more clients started coming in, I began renting professional spaces and building my brand through word of mouth.
Since then, my work has been featured on billboards across Minnesota and even in Times Square, New York. I’ve been published in several major magazines, including Elle Magazine, and my photography has taken me to states like Arizona, Georgia, New York, and Illinois.
Today, I continue to travel between Georgia and Minnesota, not only working as a photographer but also growing as a real estate investor. I’m currently developing a non-profit dedicated to high school students who, like me, might have a hidden passion for photography but just need the opportunity to explore it.
This is only the beginning—and I can’t wait to see where the lens takes me next.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I wish I can say it has been a smooth road, but it hasn’t I always say “if it aligns with you, it’ll work itself out”. luckily I haven’t had major issues. There’s been a time where my very first camera completely gave out. luckily the very well trusted studio owner Arnold from image studios known me as a frequent renter lended me his camera but it was a eye opener. I started in high school with no way of knowing how to conduct business so it came with a lot of challenges. like now knowing how to form a contract. not being as consistent which came with complaints but happily resolved. And life outside of photography certainly didn’t make it easy. I was diagnosed with a major depression and anxiety disorder. Turning 19 I got my first house in a duplex under my mom and lost it due to a basement fire. My newest battle is losing two of my grandparents in the same year of 2024 in which I’m currently working through.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a full-time photographer and creative director specializing in creative maternity and paternity shoots, model portfolios, branding campaigns, and artistic birthday sessions. I’m best known for my advanced skills in Photoshop and photo manipulation, which allow me to bring imaginative concepts to life. What I’m most proud of, though, is my unwavering consistency and my ability to pivot through challenges that nearly made me give up. And over the years, I’ve built a thriving community and a loyal, multi-state clientele that continues to grow with me.
What sets me apart is my story & how I create spaces both physical and emotional, where people feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. Whether I’m shooting editorial work or mentoring the next generation through my non-profit, everything I do is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and elevation.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Anything Art. Art has a way of separating you from the rest of the world, a grand escape from reality and what I need at times is that deep breath away from the world of changes and chaos.
My siblings! i take pride in being their role model and confidant, that being youngest being 21 years younger than me. They all find a way to make me keep going.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://vasiajcreations.org
- Instagram: Vasiajcreations
- Facebook: @ Vasia
