Hi, I’m Brian J. Jones — better known as The Middle Man

— and I’ve been holding a camera since 1968, back when I was just 8 years old. My first camera was a Kodak Hawkeye Instamatic, and while the technology was simple, I quickly learned that creating a great photo took more than pressing a button. It took timing, lighting, judgment — and a deep appreciation for the story behind every image.

Over the years, I’ve gone from film to digital, from darkrooms to editing software. But one thing hasn’t changed: I believe in doing things the right way. That means I never rely on software alone. I bring decades of hands-on experience into every shot I take and every photo I restore. Whether I’m behind the camera or behind the screen, my goal is always the same — to provide excellence in both service and result.

A Lifetime Behind the Lens

By the time I got my first 35mm camera — a fully manual one — I was already learning how to adjust f-stops, control depth of field, and use natural light to my advantage. Back then, you didn’t get instant previews or edits. You had to wait for film to develop — and hope you got it right. That’s how I learned to get it right the first time.

When I couldn’t rely on tech, I relied on skill, creativity, and problem-solving — values I still bring to my work today.

Photo Correction & Restoration That Honors the Past

I’ve been doing photo restoration since long before digital tools were the norm. I used to retouch images by hand with paints, pencils, and magnifiers. Today, I use advanced software — but only as a tool, not a shortcut. My photo correction services go beyond red-eye removal and filters. I focus on preserving what matters: the emotion, the subject, and the memory.

One of my favorite restorations was a severely discolored photo of my grandfather, uncle, and great-grandfather. After restoration, I could finally see their faces clearly — including my great-grandfather before he went off to fight in WWI. That moment reminded me why I do this.

Why I Call Myself "The Middle Man"

Because I stand in the gap between where your photo is and where you want it to be. Whether I’m shooting portraits, fixing blemishes, or restoring century-old photographs, I work as the bridge between problem and solution — between the past and the present.

I’m not here to impress you with jargon or automation. I’m here to serve you with excellence, honesty, and skill. No fluff. No malarkey. Just the work — done well.

Let's Work Together

Whether you need a professional photographer in Lakeland, FL, expert photo correction, or deeply personal photo restoration, I’m here to help. Let’s bring your images to life — or back to life — together.

📞 Call me: 689-339-9179

📍 Based in Lakeland, FL — Serving all of Florida