Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Drummond.
Hi Jess, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Photographing memories has always been important in my family. As far back as I can remember, we would sit on the floor and regularly go through boxes of pictures of special moments in time and retell the stories behind those pictures. As I got older, I wanted to be able to capture memories and tell my own stories as well, so I started playing around with photography. I was gifted my first DSLR as a high school graduation present and quickly fell in love. In college, I found a serious passion for nature and macro photography first, and then as I got more comfortable with working with clients, I discovered an additional passion for family, couples, and wedding photography. Over the last decade, my business transitioned from a hobby secondary to my career as a middle school teacher to my full-time job, and it is so fulfilling. Preserving genuine emotions and memories for my clients to cherish forever is an honor, and I am beyond grateful for the amazing clients turned friends I have made along the way.
Alright, 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?
It has not always been a smooth road. For one thing, imposter syndrome hits hard sometimes! However, when you love something as much as I love photography, the obstacles are just little speed bumps.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in family, couples, and wedding photography, but what sets me apart I think is how I capture unscripted genuine moments between people. There is certainly beauty in a posed photograph with everyone looking at the camera; however, I find the photos that speak to me the most are those that come from silly prompts. Photoshoots with me are silly and high-energy! We play games, say ridiculous things to get laughs, play with bubbles or water blasters, etc. Especially for the anxious client, this takes away the pressure of being in front of a camera and redirects their attention to the people they are most comfortable with already. The joy I capture from them is genuine because they’re truly having fun with their families or significant others. I used to work for Walt Disney World in Florida, and then I was a middle school teacher, and I aim to bring that energy into my sessions.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Consistency is one of the most important things you can bring to your business to make it successful. It’s tough, especially on days where you don’t have the energy to post or respond to someone or write an email, but consistency reinforces the trust between you and your clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fireandlightphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/fireandlightphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/fireandlightphotography
Image Credits
Fire and Light Photography
