Jessica Photo Blog

Portraiture is something I very much love to do. Unlike weddings there isn’t the buzz or rush or adrenaline, but something altogether different that is also totally enjoyable – the ability to really take the time. During our session I like to let things unfold without preconceived notions. I will visualize what I would like to do based on the location, the subjects, but then sometimes these things get tossed out the window based on factors I can’t control and I roll with the punches. Being in the moment is usually what happens – and that is what I bring to the table as a photographer…the ability to adapt to my surroundings and come back with whatever suits the situation.

I find that working with clients that can go with this rhythm match my style best. Clients with rigid expectations, based on some preconceived notion of how a session is “supposed” to be or, worse, expectations from their child to act a certain way, do not mesh. If your child isn’t “acting right” for me I can deal with it, photographically. Kids are impossible sometimes – that’s ok! That’s perfect. Every single photograph in my portfolio reflects a child who “isn’t cooperating.” That’s kids – that’s why you’ve hired a photographer! I’m writing this because I run into parents all the time who think I’ve “gotten nothing” only to be super suprised the shoot was a total success. So let your guard down, don’t worry about it. I’ll let you know if something isn’t right and what we should do (generally take a break, get a snack, etc.).

If you have a notion in your mind’s eye with what you want from our session, I’m not the right photographer. The images I create are in the moment and there is no reliable formula for what you will receive. Sometimes I have parents say, “I want it to look like this other portrait you took.” This will never happen!