MC Graduate Opens Followell Fotography in Clinton
Clinton Mayor Rosemary Aultman, artist Wyatt Waters, Mississippi College supporters and friends gave a warm welcome to MC graphic design graduate Robby Followell at his photography studio Monday.
Next-door to the Pentimento bookstore, Followell Fotography is a perfect fit for the string of about 15 businesses in the historic Main Street district of this vibrant Hinds County city. Waters, another MC alumnus, operates an art studio across the street.
On a humid September day, bottles of Coca-Cola and brownies welcomed visitors streaming in to see his work at the 304 North Jefferson Street location. Business is already brisk.
Followell's company is booked for 42 weddings in 2009 since opening its doors in May and more marriage photo shoots are coming in 2010. The company also does commercial work for Mississippi College, among other clients.
At Monday's official open house, Followell thanked the visitors and his business clients for embracing his new venture, a dream come true for the award-winning photographer. Five months after his doors opened, Followell Fotography was recognized as Jackson's Best Photographer by WAPT-16's "A-List."
"The real credit for any of my successes, though, belongs to my Jesus and my wife," Followell said. "It's a team effort."
Followell is a May 2007 MC graduate and former recruiter with MC's admissions office. His passion for photography is contagious. He's shot fabulous photos for Beacon, MC's alumni magazine, MC Education and other publications.
Jessica Followell, a staff member at MC, said she and her husband are truly blessed. "I'm really proud of him."
Tara Lytal, manager of Clinton's Main Street program, said the historic district is delighted to welcome Followell Fotography and believes the new business will be a boost for the area. Main Street program's president Tracey Harrison hopes the district will continue to attract more young talented professionals like Robby Followell.
"Robby is both a gifted artist and a highly talented professional photographer," said Harrison, a Clinton resident who serves as director of public relations at Mississippi College. "We are very excited and fortunate to have Followell Fotography as a new Main Street member."
Followell's business moved into the location that was once occupied by Red Door Antiques. Now, visitors can see many of his wedding photos on display. Serving as his office manager is Heather Vines who provides a good bit of help while Followell is busy shooting assignments.
Robby Followell and his wife, Jessica, love the downtown area so much that they may live in Olde Towne Clinton someday.
Followell, who grew up in Meridian, says his philosophy and goal as a photographer are pretty simple: to "capture the fun of real life."
PHOTO: Photographer Robby Followell and supporters welcome his business to Clinton Main Street program.
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