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Katie Donald
Webmaster

Imagine creating a business. There needs to be a design, funding, and most importantly, execution. Starting from the ground up is no easy task, and most entrepreneurs struggle, even those with graduate degrees. Two of Harbor’s creative and bright students have designed companies on their own, and have been successful in doing so, proving that a passion can go a long way.

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Sophomore surf photographer Landon Knight first discovered his fascination for photography when he bought an underwater camera three years ago. A beach junkie, Knight has always loved the essence and culture of the beach. Catching Knight in his element is catching him right in the action: “I’m not the ordinary surf photographer that stands on the beach with a telephoto lens. I actually paddle out and sit in the impact zone, waiting for the waves to break over me” said Knight. He is known for his beach scenery and ocean photography, yet Knight doesn’t just limit himself to surfing; he also shoots for a local clothing company called Spruce. His work has also been published in Ghetto Juice Magazine, The Newport Independent, Rail Magazine, NHHS Surf Team Calendar, and other various websites.

What makes his photos stand out from the rest is his quality. He uses a Canon Rebel T2I with a Tokina 10-17mm fisheye lens and a Del Mar housing to capture his work. Knight usually prints on canvas but he extends his work to wood, metal, phone cases, and paper. Prices start at $75 for a twelve by sixteen picture, and can go as upwards as $350 for a thirty by forty. All proceeds go straight back into his company to invest in better tools and marketing. You can find his exhibits at Ho Sum Bistro on 32nd street or at Hair West Salon near 30th street, on the peninsula, in June. To contact Landon, email him at [email protected] or visit landonknightphotography.com.
 
Similar to Knight, Sophomore Emily Williams has found work in what makes her most passionate. An inexpensive pair of shoes and a paintbrush is all Williams needs to create a personalized pair of walking art. Lorax Toms, My Little Pony Converse, and Hunger Game espadrilles are just a few examples of a plethora of shoes she has created.
 
Her work has flourished on Etsy, an online website for handmade goods, selling over 45 pairs of shoes to people in the U.S., Canada, the UK, and Malaysia. Williams spends hours on her designs; a shoe with the Lion King takes around twelve hours where as a shoe like My Little Pony only takes two hours. Prices fluctuate from $35 to $130 depending on the complexity of the shoe. Her favorite design is the Lorax, and it proves most popular amongst customers. Like most entrepreneurs, Williams doesn’t want to stop here. Her future goals are to include clothing and home décor in her business.
 
“I really like the independence of being able to spend my own money that I have earned. Starting a business gave me both the opportunity to accrue quite a bit of money by using my creativity and talent, and gain insight on how it is outside in the real world” said Williams.
 
Emily has a good cause behind her profits. She is currently sponsoring a child in another country, and the rest she uses to send herself on field studies and buy dance competition outfits. To buy her shoes, visit www.etsy.com/shop/creatorscircle. These students are paving their way to a successful future, all because of their passions.





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