Abel Harris: philanthropist who helps promote small businesses through photography
By Sueann Wickham
Kaieteur News- Abel Harris is a 19 year old local photographer who has been taking social media by storm with his outstanding photography skills. He is currently using his skills to help new small business owners market their products properly by offering them his service at no cost.
To boost this noble venture, he recently posted on Facebook which attracted the attention of his significant following. In the mail, he en
Photo taken for a local handmade beer business
courag
The 19-year-old photographer, Abel Harris
ed small business owners reach out to him for photo shoots of their products. His post was well received by the local Facebook community; Some people even claimed, in complete shock, that they have never seen such a kind gesture coming from a local creative in Guyana.
During an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News, he revealed the young and seasoned photographer, having completed his secondary education at St. High School Rose, he ventured into photography in early 2019.
Fresh to the art of photography, he was undoubtedly an amateur in most components but knew he would eventually get promoted.
Being able to display art in its best form with a camera was always his dream and, according to him, growing up, he saw many beautiful places and nature scenes throughout the country, which created a passion for photography.
Harris, observing small business overtime in Guyana, said it was
recognized that many were unable to present visual representations of their products at a level, which is most appealing. “I’ve seen so many small businesses with great products but terrible photos of their products,” Harris expressed.
The way a product is presented is known to affect overall marketing and “many small business owners need that boost,” according to Harris.
He further added that in the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many small businesses emerged and were able to see and experience the effects that the pandemic had on many who had previously existed. In light of that, he was encouraged to assist some of these business owners in marketing their products through good photography in the hope of making their businesses more fruitful in the already challenging pandemic.
Harris strongly believes small business owners should accept his offer because it provides a platform for both parties to gain exposure, grow their network and gain new customers.
Pictures shot for a local accessory business
Photographs were taken for a local decorative business
“Networking and more networking is an essential element of business; the more businesses get their name out in the market, the more exposure that would lead to more sales opportunities for them, ”advised Harris.
Further, he noted that the country should have an annual demonstration specifically designed to showcase and present small businesses and their products or services. This, he says, is because many small businesses provide and produce products and services, which many people may need, but because they are not that people who can be found cannot and cannot find them age knowing they exist.
Pictures shot for a local juice making business
From the time of posting until now, Harris has already obtained photo shoots for several new small businesses, including businesses that make handmade beer, decorative items, accessories and local fruit juices.
As a young creative, the local creative community can surely play a great role in boosting the economy by using their talent and social media following to promote others besides themselves.
That hands-on approach has the ability to take individuals and the country to great heights and aligns with the country’s motto: “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”.