Behind The Lens: Greetings From Jay
Greetings from Jay
Behind The Lens: About Jay
What began as a casual search for a new hobby quickly transformed into a deep, personal passion. Photography started as a creative outlet—but over time, it’s become something far more meaningful: both my profession and my therapy.
Entirely self-taught, I’ve developed my craft through curiosity, experimentation, and a relentless drive to improve. Today, I work with clients who are not only my neighbors, but also based in cities and countries around the world.
My projects span a wide range—capturing milestone moments like a surprise proposal, documenting the full menu of a newly opened restaurant, or delivering advertising imagery that can define a brand’s critical fourth-quarter performance. Whether it’s a private memory or a high-stakes campaign, I bring the same intention to every frame: to create images that are real, resonant, and lasting.
My style is honest, cinematic, and always centered on storytelling. I’m not just here to document how something looks—but to capture how it feels.
Because when done right, a single photo can say everything.
Professional Billiards Photography
Mosconi Cup
A Week with Earl Strickland
The Money Match
Las Vegas, 2019 - I was honored to be one of just three photographers chosen to document the Mosconi Cup, the most prestigious team event in professional billiards. Featuring the top five players from Team USA and Team Europe, it’s a high-stakes, high-energy competition unlike any other. That year, Team USA claimed their last victory, wit
Las Vegas, 2019 - I was honored to be one of just three photographers chosen to document the Mosconi Cup, the most prestigious team event in professional billiards. Featuring the top five players from Team USA and Team Europe, it’s a high-stakes, high-energy competition unlike any other. That year, Team USA claimed their last victory, with my close friend Skyler Woodward earning MVP honors. Several of my images from the event were featured in national billiards publications.
The Money Match
A Week with Earl Strickland
The Money Match
Oklahoma City, 2019 - I had the privilege of being the official photographer for one of the biggest money matches in pool history: Shane Van Boening vs. Dennis Orcollo. Held over three days in Oklahoma City, the match drew global attention as two titans clashed in front of a packed crowd and huge streaming audience. Ircollo, also known as
Oklahoma City, 2019 - I had the privilege of being the official photographer for one of the biggest money matches in pool history: Shane Van Boening vs. Dennis Orcollo. Held over three days in Oklahoma City, the match drew global attention as two titans clashed in front of a packed crowd and huge streaming audience. Ircollo, also known as Robocop, Putin the most dramatic comebacks of all time—and my photos from the event were featured in multiple national magazines and websites around the world.
A Week with Earl Strickland
A Week with Earl Strickland
A Week with Earl Strickland
Dallas, 2020 - In 2020, I spent a week in Dallas, Texas, documenting the legendary Earl Strickland for a major marketing campaign. Widely regarded as the greatest 9-ball player of all time—and unquestionably the most animated—Earl is known for his brilliance at the table and his explosive outbursts during and after matches. I lived in th
Dallas, 2020 - In 2020, I spent a week in Dallas, Texas, documenting the legendary Earl Strickland for a major marketing campaign. Widely regarded as the greatest 9-ball player of all time—and unquestionably the most animated—Earl is known for his brilliance at the table and his explosive outbursts during and after matches. I lived in the same house with him throughout the shoot, and needless to say, I was the lucky recipient of one of his classic blow-ups—an experience I strangely consider an honor. Capturing Earl’s intensity, charisma, and larger-than-life personality remains one of the most unforgettable assignments of my career.
Women’s World Championship
A Week with Earl Strickland
A Week with Earl Strickland
Atlantic City, 2023 - In 2023, I was on assignment at the Women’s World 9-Ball Championship in Atlantic City, photographing the world’s best players as they competed for the most coveted title in women’s pool. While Chieh-Yu Chou ultimately took home the trophy, I was especially proud to cheer on my friend Kristina Tkach—who would go on t
Atlantic City, 2023 - In 2023, I was on assignment at the Women’s World 9-Ball Championship in Atlantic City, photographing the world’s best players as they competed for the most coveted title in women’s pool. While Chieh-Yu Chou ultimately took home the trophy, I was especially proud to cheer on my friend Kristina Tkach—who would go on to win the 2024 World 10-Ball Championship and secure her place in pool history.
Lights, Sirens, Heart
