Tell us about you, who you are, hobbies, fav things. Can be random and silly!
My name is Jen. I am a born and raised New Yorker. (Which is explains why I totally think its ok to drop F bombs and am really picky about my pizza). I love to workout, mostly so I can indulge in chocolate and bourbon without guilt. I believe in challenging myself. Even though I am busy with 2 kids, my husband and running a business, I am always looking to try new things. This year it’s been yoga and learning hebrew.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a photographer?
I realized I wanted to be a photographer when I realized I could marry doing something artistic with making money. I was never really a desk job kind of person.
How did you first start out?
I started by teaching myself how to use my camera. I turned to the camera during a difficult time in my life. I needed a distraction, an outlet. I shot anything and anyone that would let me. Shortly after, I assisted a friend on a boudoir shoot and I just fell in love. It’s been all boudoir for me since then.
How did know when the right time to start charging was?
I started charging WAY before I should have skill wise. However, I had one child and another on the way and I truly felt that if I was going to leave my family for a few hours or a day, it needed to be worth my time. (See that’s the business side of the brain speaking. The artist side told me I was crazy to charge at all, but I shut her down.)
How would you describe your style?
Shamelessly Feminine.
What’s in your gear bag?
Nikon D3S and D750
Sigma: 35mm ART, 50mm ART, 85mm, 105mm, 24-70mm, 24-105mm ART, 70-200mm
One lens you can’t live without?
Sigma 50mm ART. Sharpest lens I have ever used!
How much did you charge for your first session and how much are you charging for the same type of session now?
When I started in boudoir I charged around $250/300. Now on average my clients spent around $1800-2000. Funny, people tell me all the time that I can charge more, and I have in the past. But this # allows for fairly easy bookings, good referrals and happiness.
How did you market yourself when you started out?
I found the “cool” girls that would talk about it so they could be my marketing team. I shot them for free in exchange for the word of mouth.
If for some reason you couldn’t be a photographer what do you think you would be?
A pop star (oh wait I can’t sing). hmmm… A motivational speaker (Which I sometimes am now). Actually I want to do more work now with women in need – so probably something along those lines. Or maybe I would be a chef, housekeeper, tutor, taxi driver, personal shopper, coach. Also known as a stay at home mom.
What’s the best lesson in photography that you’ve learned so far?
Patience. We all want to get great TODAY! It takes time. Time to build the skill and build the business.
Did you go to school for photography or were you self- taught? If self-taught, what helped you the most?
I am completely self taught. the book I started with was understanding exposure by Bryan Peterson. Best book ever.
What has been some of the hardest things to overcome in your business?
Work life balance is a constant struggle. Knowing where to put my energy and when. Plus dealing with the things that pop up that you can’t control.
Do you have any tips for photographers just starting out?
For goodness sake, charge for your time and efforts. Yeah, you may suck – but eventually you won’t and then people still won’t want to pay you.
What are your thoughts on props?
I don’t use many. I have a bed in my studio and thats about it. It’s not my style but there is nothing wrong with it if it is yours.
We are going to play a game… name the first person that comes to mind when you think of…
Newborn photographer: Kelly Brown
Wedding photographer: Jerry Ghionis
