J Spivey Photography, Vandalia

When Justin was a kid, his parents gifted him with a camera along with this advice: “only take good photos.” Not wanting to waste film, he took those words to heart and carefully selected his subjects and shots. Now, with a degree in commercial photography and his own business, Justin still follows his parents’ advice, even when shooting with a digital camera. On any given day, he photographs newlyweds as they waltz around the reception room, teenagers celebrating their graduation from high school, and families marking another year of change. The versatile photographer also works as a DJ, providing both music and lighting for important events, from weddings to traffic court.