A completely self-made businessman, Jemal Hayes, owner of Mr. J's Media, has a reputation that precedes him, and his body of work is impressive.  He does everything from portrait photography to weddings, as well as producing personal and corporate videos. He also offers a host of other services including digital media, aerial photography, VHS transfer, photo archiving, photo restoration, and video fusion.

His list of clients is impressive and includes the likes of Alan Durkin, a respected plastic surgeon in Vero Beach, who Hayes created a business video for. He has also done photography work for the University of Florida's Center for Psychiatry, Addiction and Pain Medicine in Vero, and every year he does portraits of Grand Harbor's employees at their annual Christmas party. 

His company is a family affair as his wife of 20 year, Simmone helps, particularly when he shoots weddings. “I provide support for him,” says Simmone. “For example, at a wedding he can focus on photography while I help pose and coordinate everything.”

One of Hayes' favorite jobs is photo restoration for people whose loved ones are no longer alive. "I like helping people archive and preserve their memories," says Jemal.

Another favorite aspect of the job is creating legacy videos, a fusion of photos and video clips of people  - usually grandparents - who want to preserve their memory while they are still alive. “It’s great to show their grandkids,” says Jemal.

And his clients can’t say enough about Jemal’s work including like Roma Wehde who he created a home video for. “Our video was a huge hit. People were laughing, crying, clapping, oohing, and aahing through it all. They wanted more,” says Wehde.

Luisa Piano, owner of Luba Gift Shop and Art Studio in Vero Beach, was equally thrilled.
“Working with Jemal was a pleasure. Not only did he listen to what I wanted, but his tranquility and professionalism made me relax during the whole process. And I couldn’t be happier with the results, as he truly captured – in images – the essence of my store.”

Such accolades do not go to Hayes’ head, but they do touch his heart. “EMBRACE LIFE!!!”