Jerome Akintunde, aka Take A Shot Photography, has been Kevin Gates’ and BWA official photographer for the past few years, contributing to a few of the Baton Rouge artists’ most viral moments with pictures like the stage jump which turned into a viral meme.

But he didn’t get to the position he’s in by luck; it took hard work, failure, and persistence. Before Kevin Gates, he worked with GANG51E JUNE who was actually the person to introduce Akintunde to Gates and create the connection we see today. Before GANG51E JUNE, it all just seemed like a dream.

We asked Jerome a few questions about his artistic journey through the years.

What was the inspiration behind Take a Shot?

For me it was my message to everyone with dreams who were afraid to chase them because of whatever sacrifices would come with it. So essentially, I felt like you had to just not think , and “Take A Shot” on yourself. You miss every shot you don’t take. 

What made you go down the avenue of celebrity photography? 

It really chose me, I never really dreamed or aimed towards it. I’m really someone who enjoys being with my family and friends. But Dom Williams introduced me to GANG51E JUNE and after that it’s been on ever since. Thank them for giving me opportunities, and I made the most out of them.

You have a picture of Kevin “flying” that went viral a few years back. How did it feel to see your art flood the internet how it did?

Man it really changed my life. When I came on that tour, I didn’t have a lot of money. Honestly, by that time of the tour I was flat broke. And I had no idea what I was going to do after tour because I had quit my job and I just took a chance on myself. But when I saw that go viral— the conversation I had with labels and huge social media people and them offering to buy it— it let me know that I was meant to be here. That I was truly a professional now and I could rock with anyone. 

Whats the biggest lesson you’ve learned on your journey so far?

Stay true to yourself. Dont get lost in this industry trying to impress people. If they are for you, they will be there. If not, then that’s ok too. Doors open and they close. But you can always walk away with your head up high if you know you stayed true to yourself. And that’s just who I’ll always be.

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How has you and Kevin’s relationship developed as you continue to work?

He definitely has taught me how to move a lot smarter, challenge myself and become who I was always meant to be. He saw something in me and Kevin doesn’t really mess with a lot of people. He’s very spiritual so to even have the relationship we have means everything to me. I’ve learned a lot about myself.

Keep up with Jerome by following him on Instagram.