Gemma Flood has been a professional photographer in St Lucia for more than 20 years.

He started off not knowing anything much about taking pictures, but after a short apprenticeship, he gained some experience and then taught himself everything else he needed to know as he went along.

Through passion, hard work, and determination, Gemma has managed to make a viable business out of photography and particularly enjoys capturing portraits.

He shared his story with Yello.

Describe yourself using three words.

Smart, creative, and positive.

Please tell us a bit about your childhood.

I spent my early years between Marchand and Bois Patat in Castries. I am the oldest of three children. I have one brother and a sister.

I attended the Canon Laurie Anglican School and then moved to Bois D’Orange and passed for the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School.

I’ve always been a very friendly and open person, very interactive and open to meeting people and trying new things.

What were your initial career plans?

Funnily enough, I actually considered being a bus driver.

How did you get into photography?

In 2002 I needed a job. A friend referred me to a photographer who needed some help with taking photos. I applied and got through.

I didn’t know a thing about photography, besides how to press the button, and the photographer I worked alongside (who will remain anonymous), wasn’t the best of teachers, but he did provide the opportunity to grow and the initial equipment to do so.

I basically had to take every opportunity to teach myself and learn the tricks of the trade. I turned my photography into a business in 2005.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a professional photographer?

The cost of equipment.

How have you grown your business over the years?

Social media, word of mouth, and generally having my work speak for itself.

What do you like to photograph the most?

People particularly portraits.

How would you describe your aesthetic?

Natural artistic.

Which local / regional / international photographers do you admire?

I actually don’t have any. I’ve never looked at or studied anyone’s work for inspiration or direction. I may like different pieces of work, but more than likely, I wouldn’t know who created it.

And you are also a musician, please tell us more about that passion.

I’ve always loved to sing but had challenges in getting musical accompaniment. In 2013, I decided to learn to play the piano, and by using YouTube and a couple of websites, I taught myself how to play.

Today, I play and sing at several hotels around the island and also cater to weddings and special occasions.

What are your professional plans over the next five years?

To continue to gain exposure in both of my career paths and to be one of the best locally in those respective fields.

What do you love about St Lucia?

Everything. The people, the nature, island life, and the authenticity of just being St Lucian.

Where do you go to relax when you have time off?

My home, lol. I’ve created and designed my house in such a way that I don’t need to leave, and I can have peace of mind. I’m a homebody, you see.

What advice would you give aspiring creatives in the Caribbean?

Don’t stop when you get resistance. Keep pushing, and don’t be afraid to be different. That’s how greatness is achieved.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?

The ability to fly because I think the aerial view is one of the most amazing perspectives.

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You can see more of Gemma’s photography via the following channels:

Instagram: @gemfloo

Facebook: @Gemfloophoto