Meet Trailblazer Jessica Mynatt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Mynatt.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Jessica. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
J. Mynatt Photography began with a mix of luck, fortunate timing, and necessity. I decided to officially launch my business (which was previously a side-hustle) after having my second child a few years ago. I had grown tired of my hour-long commute to a job which I wasn’t passionate about, and I wasn’t looking forward to spending more time at a desk than I was with my new baby. So, I decided it was time for something new. I proposed my business plan to my husband and, he was so supportive of the idea, that he did everything short of throwing a party for me.

My primary focus at the beginning was being present for my little humans, so I allowed my business to grow organically via word of mouth. This led to a slew of requests to photograph everything from weddings, to school photography, to families, and more. I am, at heart, an experiential learner so I happily said yes to 95% of the requests; however, over the years, I’ve learned that my heart was in family portraiture and branding photography. I just love bringing out unique personalities in the images I make, and these two genres make that goal easy! So today, while I still take a range of requests, I specialize in these areas specifically.

Has it been a smooth road?
There have absolutely been challenges along the way!

One of my greatest challenges has been refraining from comparing my journey to that of others, which can be extremely difficult in this age of social media. The road I’ve taken is a bit unconventional – there’s little security in the next paycheck, there are no annual reviews or raises, and traditional benefits like healthcare are non-existent. But, on the flip side, I’m able to tailor my work schedule to what works best for me and my family. I have to constantly remind myself that this benefit is invaluable in our current life situation and is what works for us. If I were to summarize this as advice to someone just starting, I would tell her to stop comparing her apple to someone else’s orange – in other words, your journey and your markers for success aren’t going to be the same as anyone else’s.

Another challenge has been developing a thick skin. It’s hard hearing “no”, and getting ghosted by inquiring clients. It’s so easy to take that personally. But, I’ve learned to keep a notes section in my phone of my wins – I go and visit it when I’m feeling a little off to remind myself of just how far I’ve actually come. As a former self-diagnosed perfectionist, I’ve learned that there’s a lot more value and growth attained in measuring progress than there is in seeking perfection.

We’d love to hear more about J. Mynatt Photography.
J. Mynatt Photography is a wife and husband team that specializes in family and branding portraits. Our brand is known for its use of vibrant colors and genuinely happy faces to convey a feeling of joy in its audience. We also take tremendous pride in our ability to be all-inclusive in the clientele in which we serve. We like to say, we’re a brand that “serves all, but specializes in people of color and colorful people.” All too often, when you google or Pinterest the word “photoshoot”, there is a specific type of image that appears, and it’s easy to feel left out if you, your family, or your style doesn’t happen to look like those images. We are here to fill that gap and to provide inspiring, magazine quality portraiture for all people, that you’d be proud to show off for generations to come.

Which women have inspired you in your life?
There are so many, but I have to absolutely begin with my Mom! She is the reason for the fire in my belly and my can-do attitude. I didn’t have a genuine appreciation for the level of sacrifice that went into her role until I took it on myself. Honestly, though, this sentiment extends to all the mama’s in my network. My mother-in-law, grandmother-in-law, and mom friends are all so committed to putting the needs of others first, while simultaneously kicking doors down to get stuff done.

On a more global scale, I absolutely adore the work of Kahran Bethencourt of CreativeSoul Photography. The beauty and detail in her portrait work is obviously astounding, but the clarity in her brand’s intention is what captivates me. I’m also a huge fan of Ellen Degeneres – she just radiates joy and I basically want to be her best friend. Lastly, Michelle Obama’s story has been a big source of inspiration lately. I really appreciate the level of candor about her journey in finding her career.

Pricing:

• Family sessions begin at $300
• Branding sessions begin at $400
• Non-Wedding Events begin at $175/hour
• Weddings begin at $2500

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jmynattphotography.com
• Phone: 6783103191
• Email: jmynattphotography@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmynattphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmynattphotography/

Image Credit:
J. Mynatt Photography, LLC

Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.