Today we’d like to introduce you to Jalen Russell
Hi Jalen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In February of 2022, Harrison and Barbara Russell passed away from a carbon monoxide leak in my childhood home while I was in college. I have always been photogenic and my parents loved when I would take professional pictures for fun. Due to my childhood, we did not take many family photos and I would always tell my parents that. In July of 2022, I started my media production company, 350 North Productions (6cameramen). I enjoy capturing moments that people will remember forever. How I got to where I am today has not been easy at all. I have failed numerous times, but I have never quit. I have had the opportunity to work with famous gospel artist Zacardi Cortez, Randy Weston and Judah Band, Indiana University, Western Michigan University, local high schools, and several small businesses. By having a true passion for photography and not doing it for money has made me step in a lot of doors I never thought I would.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road at all, but I am grateful for every interaction I have had. There are a lot of things as a business owner I had to learn. All business is not good business. I learned very quickly that a non-refundable direct deposit is hard for a lot of people to understand. Communication is really pivotal when working with clients. As a business owner I cannot make excuses, but I will always speak up and out for my company when someone is clearly trying to damage the company’s reputation. I can admit that mistakes have been made, but it has never stopped me from doing something I love to do. Unfortunate circumstances do come up, but you have to take it to the chin and keep going. A few struggles I had to also deal with was my camera getting stolen, losing my SIM card due to a car accident, being overbooked and hiring other photographers that didn’t show up to the shoots giving the company a bad look, and people belittling my work by not showing up on time to scheduled events.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently a student at Indiana University that will graduate in may 2026 and plan on attending law school shortly after. I am self employed at 350 North Productions (6camermen Photography) and work at the African American Arts Institute as a photographer as well. I am a volunteer basketball coach for grades k-8 stating in January. I am currently writing an autobiography that will be released in 2025 . I am also working on my first music project, that I plan on releasing in 2025 as well. I also am a YouTuber with two pages: 350russ & The North Podcast. There a lot of things I am known for but mainly 350 North Productions and returning back to college after having to withdraw after my parents passed away. I am most proud of seeing my work on the Official Indiana University instagram. What sets me apart from others is my work ethic and being an independent thinker. I am totally fine being the outlier if it means standing up for what I believe is right. Negative comments and hate really only made me have thicker skin and go harder. Adversity to me is something I enjoy because I know a lesson learned will come from that trial and tribulation.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
They can reach out through email @350northproductions@gmail.com, Can DM @6cameramen on instagram to book photoshoots. Follow @cowboyrussell_ on instagram for the music and book release. Subscribe to 350russ & The North Podcast on Youtube.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/6cameramen/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@350Russ
- Other: https://www.youtube.com/@HowdyNortherner
