About My Photography:

I have a theoretical background in communication studies, and now: formal training in photography. What I didn’t know was how much more I could see through a lens than with my own eyes. I want to capture who you really are and in natural lighting – you know, the kind God talked about when he said “let there be light”.

You’re not just a number. All our lives we’re been numbers; whether it be an employee ID, student number or a number on a photo package. I don’t consider myself to be “shooting” you, but rather creating unique stories with new people; and having a really good time doing it. Let me just say this: I’m not for everyone, nor do I want to be. I will always stay true to my style and the creativity that inspires me. This is about connecting with people. This is about learning about others and myself.

This is about stories, it’s not just about pictures.

Who I am:

My name is Shane Ravel Jackpaul—Yes, I have two first names for a last name.

My mom once read a book where a woman was married to a man named Shane. What Shane didn’t know was that his wife had a lover; a lover named Ravel.

(Pause for dramatic effect)

Shane was the straight-edged, kind nice guy type, while Ravel was the passionate, wild, bad boy. The story and its characters left a mark on my mom, so much so that she named me after them. I feel as though I’m both.

I decided to use my middle name for my photography, mostly because it makes me feel like Ravel from the novel: daring and free. I honestly started photography because I needed a challenge. I was always mesmerized by architecture, so I picked up a camera and starting taking pictures.