He attended Toronto Metropolitan University for Fine Art during the pandemic. Finding himself isolated from his peers, he taught himself photography and lighting by simply practicing at his home everyday. His mantra of being intentional with your work and breaking down big goals into smaller projects has played a large part in his success.

I enjoyed GJ's passion and thoughtfulness as he gives simple tips on how to teach yourself lighting, how to get paid work, why it's important to pursue personal projects, and why you should let others define your work instead of yourself. His peers have called his work timeless, elegant, and elevated which is now the guiding north star for GJ's future in the industry.

You can check out GJ's work below

https://www.gjverellen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/gjverellen/

Follow Open Shutter for future show announcementes

https://www.instagram.com/openshutteryoutube/