Meet Shawndale Thomas | Visual Media Producer & Social Engagement Strategist

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

Hi Shawndale, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
As a digital media content creator and social engagement strategist at Shawndale Thomas Photography, Ltd., my role extends far beyond crafting captivating visuals and managing online presence. I am dedicated to leveraging the power of digital media to drive meaningful social impact and foster community engagement.

Through strategic content creation, I strive to amplify the voices of underrepresented communities, promote diversity and inclusion, and spark conversations around important social issues. Whether through compelling photography, thought-provoking videos, or engaging social media campaigns, I aim to inspire, educate, and empower audiences to enact positive change.

As the lead digital creator with Shawndale Thomas Photography, Ltd., I work to elevate the stories of individuals and organizations making a difference in their communities. By showcasing their work, highlighting their achievements, and connecting them with wider audiences, we amplify their impact and contribute to a more just and equitable society.

My role as a social engagement strategist goes beyond simply generating likes and shares; it’s about building genuine connections, fostering dialogue, and mobilizing communities towards collective action. Whether it’s advocating for environmental sustainability, championing social justice causes, or supporting local businesses, I am committed to using digital media as a force for good.

I am honored to play a part in shaping narratives, driving change, and creating a more inclusive and compassionate world through the power of digital storytelling.

Our Headshot Happy Hour podcast and quarterly events platform are dedicated to empowering and connecting young professionals, seasoned business leaders, and startup entrepreneurs who are committed to making a positive difference in their communities. Through engaging conversations, networking opportunities, and professional headshot sessions, we provide a platform where individuals can showcase their expertise, build meaningful connections, and amplify their impact.

In today’s digital age, a professional headshot is essential for personal branding and professional advancement. However, our mission goes beyond just capturing a great photo. We believe that behind every headshot is a story of passion, dedication, and purpose. By highlighting the diverse voices and experiences of our guests and attendees, we inspire others to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their spheres of influence.

Our platform serves as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation, fostering a supportive ecosystem where ideas thrive and partnerships flourish. Whether you’re a young professional embarking on your career journey, a seasoned executive leading change in your industry, or a startup entrepreneur with a vision for positive impact, Headshot Happy Hour is here to support and celebrate your endeavors.

Together, we’re not just capturing moments; we’re shaping the future of leadership and community engagement. Join us in creating a ripple effect of positive change, one headshot and one connection at a time.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a self-taught photographer, I embarked on a journey of artistic exploration and self-discovery, honing my craft through passion, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. Without the formalities of traditional education, I immersed myself in the world of photography, learning through trial and error, experimentation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

This unconventional path not only equipped me with technical skills but also instilled in me a profound understanding of storytelling, visual communication, and the power of perspective. I learned to see the world through the lens of my camera, capturing moments that spoke volumes and resonated with audiences far and wide.

After years of mastering my art, I transitioned into a career in service as an arts educator, curating enriching experiences for school-aged children in Cincinnati, Ohio. Drawing from my background as a photographer, I began by teaching photography classes for after-school and summer arts programs, introducing young minds to the magic of visual storytelling.

What set my approach apart was my commitment to making the curriculum simple and digestible, ensuring that even kindergarteners could grasp the fundamentals of photography. But more than just teaching them how to operate a camera, my goal was to empower them with essential life skills.

I believed that by nurturing their creativity, encouraging their curiosity, and fostering their self-expression, I could equip them with the tools they needed to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and resilience. I recognized that even at a young age, children possess a level of understanding that is comprehensive to their developmental stage.

Through my photography classes, I aimed to cultivate not just future professional photographers, but compassionate, critical thinkers who approach life with curiosity, empathy, and a sense of wonder. By nurturing their innate talents and nurturing their sense of self-worth, I hoped to inspire them to become lifelong learners and empowered individuals.

My journey as a self-taught photographer laid the foundation for my career in arts education, shaping my approach to teaching, learning, and mentorship. It taught me that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about nurturing the human spirit, igniting passion, and unlocking potential. And in every child I teach, I see a reflection of myself—a testament to the transformative power of art and the boundless possibilities of the human imagination.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I consider myself a Cincinnati tour guide. To make it more interesting, I also love to eat. That said, if my best friend was visiting the Cincinnati area and I wanted to show them the best time ever, I would start lunch at the Incline house in Price Hill. The view overlooking the Cincinnati Skyline is a sight to see and the fish and chips are a must. I enjoy a cigar from time to time so we couldn’t go wrong with a visit to a black owned bar and cigar patio, The Jester in St. Bernard for a smoked old fashion, a suggested cigar pick from Carlos or Damian out of their humidor and a dope conversation on the patio. My nightlife venture would be to hit up Nastagia, a Black owned jazz and wine cafe located in over the whine area of Downtown Cincinnati.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
To my beloved mother, Melody Renee, may her soul rest in peace,

Today, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the profound impact you’ve had on my journey as a photographer and storyteller. In 1998, you loaned me a simple 35mm x700 Minolta camera, igniting a passion that would shape the course of my life and create a lasting legacy.

We often found ourselves in spirited debates about my love for the arts and storytelling. While you hoped for a path that promised greater financial stability, you never wavered in your support of my dreams. Little did you know, your belief in me fueled my determination to not only excel as a photographer but also to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Your influence as a professional networker and go-getter has left an indelible mark on my approach to business and life. Through your example, I learned the value of tenacity, resilience, and the power of forging meaningful connections. You may not have realized it then, but your wisdom and guidance laid the foundation for my success.

Mom, thank you for your unwavering support, your boundless love, and your unyielding belief in my potential. Though you are no longer with us, your spirit lives on in every frame I capture, in every story I tell, and in every connection I make.

As I reflect on my journey, I am profoundly grateful for the seats at tables I never imagined I’d occupy. Your legacy lives on through me, and I carry your memory with me in every endeavor. Thank you, Mom, for everything.

To all the incredible individuals, organizations, and entities who have entrusted Shawndale Thomas Photography, Ltd. with capturing their moments, telling their stories, and sharing their journeys through the lens, I extend my deepest gratitude.

Each click of the camera, each frame of video, is a testament to the trust you’ve placed in us to preserve your memories and amplify your message. Whether it was a personal milestone, a corporate event, or a social cause, your stories have inspired us and enriched our lives.

I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to every person who has shared even the smallest piece of wisdom with me. Your insights, advice, and experiences have shaped my perspective and fueled my growth as a photographer and storyteller. In particular, I am forever indebted to Clatties Moorer, my mentor from the early 2000s, who illuminated the power of influence through the lens. His guidance instilled in me a profound sense of responsibility as a storyteller, reminding me of the impact I hold as a custodian of narratives.

To Clatties Moorer and all those who have contributed to my journey, whether directly or indirectly, your influence has been immeasurable. You are the guiding stars that illuminate my path, and I am forever grateful for your presence in my life.

Thank you for allowing Shawndale Thomas Photography, Ltd. to be a part of your stories, and thank you for being a part of mine.”
With all my love and gratitude,

Website: https://www.shawndale.com

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Linkedin: Shawndale Thomas

Twitter: shawndphoto513

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