Jennifer is a fantastic photographer who I have watched grow over the past year as she has gone through two of the Cozy Clicks Portrait photography courses, The Perfect Portrait and Shoot It Sensational. I just love her creative composition and her use of light. Come learn a little bit more about Jennifer and be inspired by her awesome portrait photography!
Describe your photography journey
I first began photographing over 10 years ago. Initially I was quite content with shooting in Auto mode; in fact I shot this way for several years. I mostly photographed my two sons at their baseball games. Eventually, I began photographing their teammates and sharing with parents. One mom in particular asked if I knew the Sunny 16 rule. I was clueless! Turned out she was a high school photography teacher. She started my interest in learning more about my camera. I began scouring Pinterest for tutorials. That’s when I first stumbled on a Cozy Clicks article. This was the first article that explained things in a way that was easy for me to understand and apply. The article led me to the Cozy Clicks support Facebook group. After lurking in the group for a while, I began to post my photos asking for constructive criticism (cc). The group has been so valuable in giving advice in a way that is meant to help a beginner. The more I continue to learn, I realize that my journey will never end and that’s ok. I have pushed myself to learn more and improve. I am now onto my second Cozy Clicks Course. I have noticed that I am more thoughtful when I am photographing now.
What (or who) was your inspiration for wanting to get into photography?
My grandmother’s father was a photographer. While I never met him, he was able to capture beautiful portraits of my grandmother. I loved looking at them when I was younger. I want to leave this same type of legacy for others to enjoy too.
What type of photography do you enjoy the most and why?
I enjoy portrait photography, specifically high school seniors. Ironically I hate being in front of the camera. I never like how I look in photos. Because of this I try extra hard to photograph everyone so it brings out their best features.
Where do you see yourself as a photographer in the next 5 years?
In the next 5 years I would like to photograph on a regular basis and focus on high school seniors.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a brand new photographer?
My advice for a brand new photographer is to be patient with yourself. Try not to compare yourself to others. It’s great to be inspired by other’s work, but enjoy where you are as you pursue your own journey. And don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice in groups. You’ll learn a lot.
Tell us a little bit about the gear you use.
I recently upgraded to my first full frame camera…I’m in love! I use a Nikon D750. My favorite lens is my 70-200mm 2.8. The only con is that it’s heavy. I also have an 85mm 1.8 and the nifty-fifty 1.8. My next wish list lens is the 135mm.
Do you have any funny or embarrassing moments to share about a time when you were out shooting?
My most embarrassing moment so far has been when I photographed my first couple that I didn’t know. They came as a referral from a friend of mine. They offered to pay me $50. I was so excited and soooo nervous at the same time. I decided to try back button focus for the first time. Note to beginners, don’t try new things on a paid shoot. You probably have guessed where this is going. I missed focus on so many photos. I wasn’t able to provide a full collection. Luckily this embarrassing story has a happy ending. I called the couple and asked if they would be willing to re-shoot or if they would like a refund. They said a re-shoot would work for them. The next day I met with them again. This session went much better. I was fortunate to have a great couple that made me feel comfortable.
Thanks so much to Jennifer for sharing her story and work here with us! I know her goal is to start shooting seniors, so my guess is that she will have a website and social media pages in the very near future! Take a minute and leave a comment for Jennifer letting her know what photo of hers you love or how you can relate to her photography journey!
To read more about students in the Cozy Clicks courses, hear their story, transformation and how they can help and inspire YOU! Check them out here!
Great article, enthusiastic and caring. Jennifer provides the push to the next level. Many thanks.