Office Peeps: Kel Timola | Cocogen Insurance

June 28, 2022

Office Peeps is a closer look at our employees and their lives both in and out of the confines of the workplace, what drives them and what inspires them to pursue their work and their different passions in life. Name: John Michael Timola aka “Kel” Age: 25 years old Position: Marketing Associate (Graphic Design) Hobby/Second Career: Freelance Photographer What made you apply here as a Graphic Designer? I used to do graphics for various student organizations back in college. I realized then that this must be a career that I can pursue after I graduate. Since when did you become interested in photography? I started being interested in photography when I was in 6th grade when our school selected representatives to join a campus journalism contest. I felt like I was made to be a photojournalist. When I did graphic design works for a student org during college, I also volunteered to fill the position of one of its graduating photographers. What inspired you to become a Freelance Photographer? My interests in music and wedding photography made me realized that I really wanted to pursue this hobby. What’s the best thing about being a Photographer? I have to admit that I had low self-esteem before. Photography helped boost my confidence especially when I needed to socialize with a lot of people during events. Photography brings a personal connection not just to the photographer but also to those in the photos as well. What has been the biggest challenge to you both as a Graphic Designer and a Photographer? My biggest challenge would be on how my works will stand out from the rest. As a graphic designer, the challenge is translating my ideas into output. For me, it’s easy to think of creative ideas, but to be able to put those ideas into an actual design is something I need to work on. As a photographer, I feel like I still have a long way to go especially in adding my own identity to the photos I capture.

In terms of balancing these careers, I really don’t have a problem with it since I only accept freelance photography work every weekend. I’ve been offered weekday gigs, but I’d rather refer them to my other Photographer friends so that I won’t miss a day in the office. What’s your advice for all aspiring Photographers as well as those who would like to pursue both a career and their passion? Photography is a good hobby. It is a great way of telling a story through your perspective. It is more than just taking photos, but also capturing memories that you can always look back. For those who want to pursue their passion while having a stable job, I say you go for it because you can always combine your learnings from your work and your hobby to your growth as a person.

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