My name is Samuel Jake. I am part of the Navajo Nation (Dine) and grew up in Sandy, Utah. My father taught me lots about the Native way. I grew up being very involved in sports, art, and music. My parents were very supportive of my interests and expressing myself. They are still very integral in my development as an individual and artist. I have connected with others in my culture and am learning the dances and other traditional arts. This happened a lot through my photography as I worked with others.

My photography and filmmaking cover a wide range of avenues. I love working with cameras because I am able to tell stories and connect with people and places. For me, storytelling is important because traditionally that is how my culture has passed down our heritage. Culture and art are interconnected, and I want to tell people’s stories that tell their truth. Photography has no limit-you can capture anything and appreciate anything. Photography is a beautiful opportunity to understand the world better. Memories are the only thing that connects us to the past. Having a photo or video of the past connects us to those memories. I have found that my art has no limitations.

In a teaching residency, I present cultural presentations for younger students that aren’t ready to grasp the use of cameras and the photography concepts. Starting in upper elementary and middle school through adults, I bring in my camera and lighting equipment and have a hands-on photography session. I also bring a printer and do light painting in a dark room with students. I am willing to work and adapt presentations according to requests. My focus would be on helping others to tell their own stories. There are so many options. Reach out and we can figure out what will work best for you.