The first time I photographed Jack was June 2015, just a little over a year ago at IndyPop Con. He was a young fresh faced, enthusiastic young man who was perhaps just a bit overwhelmed when the line formed…..and formed……and formed………and formed. I met a really genuine young man that exuded a rare mix of shyness and exuberance which did not change in 3 grueling days of signings.
In August of the same year, I had the pleasure of photographing him again at PAX Prime. Though some of the shyness had worn off, he was still enthusiastic and genuine in his attitude and perhaps still a little surprised by his “fame”.
In April of 2016, I was fortunate enough to photograph him at PAX East. This time however, I met a very confident young man, a seasoned professional. However, what had not changed was his attitude to his fans. He was and is still approachable and energetic and wishing to bend over backwards for his fans.
This last time was at VidCon 2016. Though I was able to photograph him, I did not have a chance to actually speak to him BUT as seen in the panel he was on, the shyness, the awkwardness on stage, the hesitation to interject is gone. This is a young man that has grown into his “job” but has not lost his ability to laugh not just with others but at himself too.
From observation, he takes what he does seriously but not to the point of arrogance. Trust me, I’ve met a few of these YouTubers and the fame and adoration has gone to their heads. Staying grounded is not an easy feat when you have millions of people heaping praise on you. Do I think he is as humble as the first time that I met him? No, no one would be but that is part of growth, growing up, becoming more confident in what you do. Experience changes anyone and everyone. Have I enjoyed all his videos? No, they are some (Hunipop comes to mind) that I just did not “watch” or listen to (I listen usually as I work on photos or art). Have there been times that I believe he was just not enjoying what he was doing? Yes, especially leading up to Christmas this last year. However, we all go through slumps in our jobs and daily lives. I can’t even comprehend trying to balance that with over 11,000,000 sets of eyes on you.
We all grow, we all change. It is an inevitable part of life and who we are. Telling yourself “not to change” is unrealistic. It is happening and will continue to happen. The difference is, you have the ability to direct the change, to shape it and define who you wish to continue to be. Stay true to your ideals, your morals, your ethics and the growth will be one of a positive change. Having doubts, misgivings and self introspection is a sure sign of maturity as long as you are willing to use what you discover about yourself.
Please remember, this is just an opinion and observation, nothing more.
(Please no not edit or repost. Thank you)
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