Black Business Month: Joshua Maclin
Tell us a little about yourself and your business:
I am a Photographer and DP based in RVA. I have been running my company Maclin Media for the past 7 years. What I enjoy most is connecting with a diverse range of professionals and artists alike, locally and nationally, to take their ideas and develop them into something tangible and beautiful. Music is my first love, my father is a bass player and I grew up watching his band play. I've been playing drums since before I can remember and that rhythm is carried throughout my visual work. There are several things along the journey that I could write about but I think the most significant take away would have to be my passion for creating an environment where everyone around me is growing and inspired to go after their dreams. I love to pay it forward and as long as I am able, I will continue to do so.
From sun up to sun down, what’s your ideal day in RVA?
I'd start my day with a warm latte from Blanchard's Coffee Roasting Co followed by a breakfast sandwich from Sammich to fill me up. Then, handle my admin work and head over to the studio or out in the field to do some shooting. From there, I'd go for a walk through Bell Isle into Manchester across the 14th street bridge to grab a bite to eat in shockoe bottom. Finishing the night off, I'd head over to Broadberry to catch a live performance from one of my favorite bands, Butcher Brown.
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What would you say is Richmond’s best-kept secret?
Richmond's music scene and art in general would have to be its best kept secret. There is a ton of talent in this city and it's truly amazing to witness what RVA has cultivated.
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BLK RVA is all about supporting the thriving Black businesses and culture in the Richmond region and encouraging tourists to do the same. What’s one thing every visitor MUST do/see when they come to our region
I think everyone should experience the Walking The Ward Tour with Gary Flowers. I had the opportunity to do that a few years back and I was truly eye opening. Being from the surrounding area, It gave me a whole new outlook and pride for the City. The Jackson Ward area specifically is so rich with history and so symbolic of the greatness that we can achieve.
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You live in South Chesterfield. What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re staying close to home? I grew up in a car dealership, hanging with my Dad so naturally I developed a passion for cars. I would say my favorite thing to do is to go for night drives through the city. There's something so beautiful about it to me and I enjoy the peacefulness of it all.
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When we say the name BLK RVA, what does that mean to you? BLK RVA represents an interconnectedness of different upbringings and backgrounds that find common ground through culture and shared experiences. BLK RVA is full of life and soul. Where things are close knit enough that you can walk into pretty much any place and run into somebody you know or meet someone who treats you like family from day one. It's a vibe in this City and in the right pocket there is a lot of love and community.
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Describe Richmond in 3 words. Cozy, Surprising and Historic.