Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Surovchak.
Hi Jessica, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My friends and I took my mom’s Canon Rebel T3i out one day, I realized how much I enjoyed being behind the camera, and the rest is history. My friends shared the photos that I took and they got a lot of attention.
Before I knew it, I was taking pictures at any and every opportunity. Fortunately for me, my younger sister actually had some knowledge and experience with photography, so I was able to learn a lot from her.
About four years in, I decided to start investing into my photography and developing it into more of an actual business rather than a hobby that made me a few extra bucks here and there. I have really loved watching it grow over the years and I’ve learned a lot about myself and about running a business.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Any journey in life is going to have obstacles…This definitely hasn’t been an exception.
Most of my struggles have been internal. I think a lot of photographers and artists in general have a hard time with “imposter syndrome”. I used to think that I would only have to deal with that when I was first starting out, but I struggle more with it now that I’m a little more established. I find myself playing the comparison game a lot, but it has gotten easier to re-direct that energy and find a way to improve my product or the experience I provide for my clients.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Sure! I’m a photographer, and I specialize in natural light portraits. I have experience with artificial and studio lighting as well, but I prefer being outdoors or having access to sunlight. I love working with people of all ages and from all walks of life. When I look at people, I literally see living, breathing art. I know it sounds cheesy, but there is beauty in every single person and I love having the opportunity to capture that.
I am proud of how far my work as come. I look at some of the photos I took in the very beginning and they make me cringe. Over the years, I have found a warm, light style and I love it. I’m also proud of my personal growth as an artist and business owner…I have a lot more confidence in my abilities now, but I’m always open to learning how I can improve.
I have been told that my personality sets me apart from others. I’m often complimented on my “hype-girl” energy. I just love making people feel good about themselves and see the beauty in what they think is imperfect.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I haven’t officially worked with a “mentor”, but I’ve had the pleasure of learning from several incredibly talented people over the years. I would recommend finding someone who inspires you, not only from an artistic standpoint but just as an overall person. I think a mentor should be someone you look up to in several aspects.
As far as networking goes…USE SOCIAL MEDIA. There are so many free platforms that you can use to build interest in your product and cultivate relationships with potential clients…Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok… Don’t be afraid to put yourself and your work out there…And especially don’t worry about what those few people are going to think or say about you if you post about your business every day. As the saying goes, “haters gonna hate”. If you’re passionate about something and you want to make it happen, don’t let those people stand in your way!
Pricing:
- Portraits starting at $300.00
- Weddings/Elopements starting at $850.00
- Events starting at $500.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jsurophotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jsurophotog/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jsurophotog
Image Credits
Photo of me: Nikki Chattom Photography
