Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Grace.
Hi Jessica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always had a heart for art and service, so while I didn’t dream of being a photographer, it’s not surprising I’ve landed here.
I worked in project management and web design/development for a decade before I had children. It didn’t take long to realize that space wasn’t going to be conducive to mothering the way I wanted to, so we moved out of the city and spent some time figuring out what was next.
I’ve taken photos for years — with my grandfather’s 1960’s Nikon F, developing film as a teenager in the darkroom of the art guild in my hometown; a bit in art school at Lamar Dodd; and most recently, with my own children in front of the lens. It was my love and passion of capturing my own family that ignited the desire to do the same for others, so here we are … family photographer!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are always ups and downs when starting something new. Overcoming fear of failure, learning new technical skills, understanding how to run a business, trying to find a life / work balance (still working on that one!), getting clients. It’s a lot, for sure. But more importantly, it’s created opportunity for growth and allowed me to give back to my community in such a beautiful and meaningful way while helping support my family a little bit.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My main area of photography is families, in all phases — maternity, in-home newborn, milestones, family sessions, senior portraits. My priority is connection and accessibility. When I started working with families in my community, I noticed a huge disparity between people who wanted beautiful photos of their families and those who could actually have them. A lot of the time, this was due to financial constraints but not always. So I communicate closely with my families, try to remove barriers for them and really focus on personal connection so more people are able to preserve memories of these sweet, authentic seasons in their lives.
I also do boutique picture days for schools in my community and this has been such a surprise! It’s high volume work but I absolutely adore the kiddos, get some truly amazing expressions and love being able to provide a personal point of connection to so many parents and schools during picture day. My kids would come home with these super expensive, awkwardly posed preschool pictures twice a year and after much consideration I thought, why not provide my community with a better option? So I’ve started to and I’m really excited to see where this step takes me.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Reach out! I’m always connecting with photographers (we have such a sweet community of uplifting photographers in our area) and taking inquiries from families looking to personalize their photography experience. Support for your photographer can come in so many ways outside of booking with them. Tag me in your social media posts, recommend me to a friend, leave a Google review. Come watch my kids so I can work! Just kidding, but seriously just reach out and let’s connect.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jessgracephotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgracephoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessgracephotos/
