From the African-American Biographical Database:

Ball, J. Presley
Gender: Male
Occupation: Artist
Biographical

Sketch(es): Condition, Elevation, Emigration, Destiny, p. 118

"J. Presley Ball is the principal daguerreotypist of Cincinnati Ohio. Mr. Ball commenced the practice of his art about seven years ago, being then quite young, and inexperienced, as all young beginners are, laboring under many difficulties. He nevertheless, perservered, until he made a business, and established confidence in his skill; and now he does more business than any other artist in the profession in that city. His galley, which is very large, finely skylighted, and handsomely furnished, is literally crowded from morning until evening with ladies, gentlemen and children. He made some valuable improvements in the art, all for his own convienience. there is none more of a gentleman than J. Presley Ball. He has a brother, Mr. Thomas Ball,a nd a white gemtleman to assist him. Few go to Cincinnati, without paying the daguerrean gallery of Mr. Ball, a visit."

Hope this helps,

Denise