Meet Jacob Maness | Photographer & Artist

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

Hi Jacob, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired greatly by many photographers and artists before me. There are many artists I consider mentors, but have never met. To name a few, Alex Webb, Stephen Shore, Mitch Epstein, Annie Liebovitz, Faizal Westcott, and Virgil Abloh. Compounding on top of that, there is an incredible art community here in Denver. Many peers here have taught me, pushed me, and lent a hand into who I am as an artist. I am inspired by a drive to make images that give a feeling of curiosity or pleasurable satisfaction. I am pushed to create, as that is how I see the world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m still a work in progress. My goal is to never stop learning and trying to make images that have value. I’m not so different than other photographers, I would say I prioritize making work that says something or speaks to a greater feeling. I learned something more recently, while you may not know what you are going to get when you step outside with a camera, having an open mind and a curious eye will lead to making an image you like. There’s more opportunity with repetition, so keep going, and keep trying.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Here’s my itinerary if my bestie is visiting

– Go for walk around Wash Park / Cheeseman

– Hike North Tabletop mountain

– Go see whatever re-release Alamo Theatre is showing

– Grab US Thai or GB Fish and Chips in Edgewater

– Play some pool at Gerard’s in Rino

– Get one of the best hotdogs in the city, at Biker Jims.

– Denver Art Museum, to talk about the chairs they have

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give credit to Tom Brady, who worked at the local camera store in my hometown. Tom always answered any questions I had, and gave me guidance for what kit to use or look for. He helped me acquire one of my dream cameras, and was always excited to see some of my photos.

I also want to recognize my good friend Billie Warnock, who has helped me relentlessly with my photos. From helping me with my first solo show, setting up photoshoots, and giving a opinion on an image, they have been invaluable.

Finally, I need to credit the photo community here in Denver that has been so kind and supportive. There are so many talented artists here and I wish I could highlight all of them.

Website: https://jacobqmaness.myportfolio.com/portfolio

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobqmaness/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-maness

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jacobqmaness

Image Credits
Portrait of Me – Billie Warnock
Portrait of me taking a photo – Billie Warnock
All other photos – Jacob Maness