CHICO — Joshua Edwards has his photography displayed at a favorite Chico spot: Tin Roof Bakery and Cafe.
Edwards began taking photos about seven years ago. He’d graduated from Chico High School in 2006 and received a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from the Los Angeles Film School. A regular at Tin Roof, he asked the staff if he could display his photos on the wall. Tin Roof features a different artist every few months.
Edwards considers himself a storyteller and likes to take scenic photos, such as of Collins Lake in Browns Valley and the Monkey Face rock formation at Bidwell Park. He also has takes portraits of special people in his life and at places he travels to. He likes to take his paddleboard out into nature.
“I try to be creative and look for inspiration everywhere,” Edwards said.
Edwards showed his photography at the Museum of Northern California Art for Black History Month in February. Two of the portraits at Tin Roof are of Black women who are friends with Edwards and whom he deeply admires. “They are incredible women,” he said.
He also took a photo of a painting by Shane Grammer which depicts the aftermath of the Camp Fire.
“I rarely go anywhere without my camera,” Edwards said. “There is always something to capture at any moment.”
He likes to take photos that are thought-provoking and tell a story.
“I’m inspired by moods,” Edwards said. “I like to evolve and learn.”
Edwards hasn’t taken any photography classes: “I’m self taught,” he said.
Troy McClanahan worked with Edwards at the African American Cultural Center in Oroville. “I’m definitely a fan of his shots,” McClanahan said. “He’s a very diversified individual with a diverse portfolio.”
McClanahan said he especially likes the photos Edwards takes of children.
“In one of his last positions working for the Boy Scouts and for Thrive, he took a lot of action shots of kids,” he said. “His shots are well done.”
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Edwards is a many of many talents. He once had a radio show at KZFR and loves Christian hip-hop music. He is also the marketing director for Thrive Stream Enrichment, a place for children and families to engage in experiences that foster personal growth, creativity and imagination, according to the Thrive Stream Enrichment website.
Edwards’ photography business is called JE Photography and Production. He began taking portraits and has been involved in Black Lives Matter events. He also made a short film during the COVID-19 pandemic about the dangers of vaping.
On that project, he teamed up with the Butte County Office of Education and Enloe Medical Center. The film is called “The Path” and is available on You Tube.
“It was a collaborative effort,” Edwards said. “I wanted to show that vaping is bad for the lungs.”
Edwards has songs on Spotify and has a podcast called “From Nothing to Something Else.” He talks with life coaches and actors and friends.
“I’m a good ol’ storyteller,” he said. “My purpose is to help people and move forward.”
McClanahan, who has known Edwards since 2016, admires all of Edwards’ talents.
“I know he does music, film and marketing for local brands,” McClanahan said. “He also has a comedic podcast which touches on a few things. He’s not shy when the camera comes around.”
“One of the first things that struck me about Joshua was how well he communicates with people,” McClanahan added. “He has a sales background and works with all kinds of people. Everyone loves him. He’s a talented dude. I have nothing but positive things to say about him.”
Jahai Baruti is a musician who also appreciates Edwards. He filmed a music video for Baruti and has photographed at least five of Baruti’s shows.
“Josh Edwards is the definition of professionalism,” Baruti said. “He is a determined worker and produces immaculate content. He is always my first call for any shows or events I have.”
Edwards can be found on Instagram under Jepp Brand Marketing.
