Today we’d like to introduce you to Janet Howard.
Janet, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve been a full-time photographer for 14 years now, and I can’t believe the time has gone so quickly! I think that’s because I not only love what I do, but I keep learning and growing as a photographer. I’m always seeking out inspiration through lots of different art and media. I’m always wanting to try new techniques so I can keep looking a the world differently.
Through the years though, I’ve found that what I’m energized by is emotion. I call myself an emotion junkie because I just can’t get enough of the laughter, the happy tears, the hugs, the things life is really made of. Being able to capture those real moments with people, from newborns to families to weddings, is what drives what I do.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t know if any small business is going to have an entirely smooth road. I think everyone will make mistakes and learn what works best for them. A big challenge for me is trying to figure out what to outsource and what to do myself, and try to find a balance so that I have control over the quality of my work and still make time to spend with friends and family and recharge.
I think the biggest question on a regular basis is just knowing when to take time for myself. It’s easy to let the business own you. I’ve learned to listen to my instincts and take time for myself when I need it.
Please tell us about Janet Howard Studio.
I do mostly photography of people, including portraits, headshots, weddings, events, families and babies. Over time I’ve discovered that the images that really excite me are the ones where you can really FEEL the emotion. My style of shooting is all about helping people feel comfortable and beautiful so I can really capture who they are and their relationships with each other.
It’s not about smiling for the camera as much as being real with each other. I also really love shooting with an editorial approach. I like to feature everything from details to the landscape because it helps to tell the whole story, and I try to do it in a creative and compelling way.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Hearing my Dad’s booming laugh. He would joke and then laugh so hard he could hardly breathe, and those moments are what I miss the most now that he’s gone.
I think that’s part of what drives me to capture those emotions. My most treasured photos are the ones of my dad laughing because I can look at them and hear him again in my head and heart so many years later.
Contact Info:
- Website: JanetHowardStudio.com
- Phone: 404-654-3828
- Email: j@janethowardstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janethowardstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JanetHowardStudio/
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