James B. Solomon began his journey into photography in earnest in 1988, when he was accepted into the Marketing Department of Eastern Credit Union. Photographing the multitude of events became part of his duties, and it was during this period that he learned to print his own work… black and white in those days.
Around the same time, he began hiking. A lot!
The North Coast, particularly the trails leading to Paria Bay and Waterfall, became familiar territory, and his camera was almost always with him. Those hikes gave him an opportunity not only to explore the landscape, but to begin understanding how he saw it through a camera. You can check out James’ Business Gallery platform clicking on the link below.
Photos Courtesy of: James B. Solomon
From Trinidad and Tobago to the World
After four years, James made the decision to pursue photography full-time. He immersed himself in workshops, mentorship and competitions, eventually placing first in the professional division of a PIATT competition following a seven-day solo trek from Blanchisseuse to Matelot.
His career later took him beyond Trinidad and Tobago. In 1997, James joined the Photo Department of Carnival Cruise Lines, travelling internationally and gaining a broader perspective on how destinations use photography to tell their stories. During this time, he was also mentored by Master Photographer Monte Zucker.
Seeing how other countries presented themselves to travellers made James more conscious of the importance of showcasing the beauty of home. He noticed that Trinidad and Tobago was not being represented in the same way as other Caribbean destinations in advertising onboard the ships — an observation that stayed with him.
Photos Courtesy of: James B. Solomon
Seeing Home Through a Different Lens
James returned to Trinidad and Tobago in 2010 and continued to develop his craft while sharing his knowledge with others. In 2013, he became a founding board member of the Trinidad and Tobago Photographic Society, serving as Vice President for Education and Training and contributing to national photography contests and exhibitions.
Over the years, continued exploration has allowed him to rediscover Trinidad and Tobago’s flora, fauna, landscapes and the details that can easily go unnoticed. His work is driven by a desire to capture and share these visual wonders, finding what he describes as the extraordinary within the ordinary.
For James, the camera has become more than a tool for documenting what he sees. It has shaped the way he experiences Trinidad and Tobago — encouraging him, and those who view his work, to look a little closer.
Photos Courtesy of: James B. Solomon
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO TRINIDAD
HOW TO GET HERE
WHERE TO STAY
