Meet Jen Coombes

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jen Coombes.

Hi Jen, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
From a lifelong love affair with photography to crafting it into a profession, my journey has been a remarkable evolution. It all started with a fascination for freezing moments in time, a passion that was further fueled during the “mommy bloggers” era when I was enthralled by the captivating images captured by other moms.

Motivated to delve deeper into this world, I acquired my first DSLR, initially focusing on documenting my children’s milestones. However, it wasn’t long before I was drawn to the vast landscapes and enchanting night skies, prompting a shift towards landscape and astrophotography. Eager to refine my skills, I immersed myself in online courses and sought inspiration from workshops, where I found a community of kindred spirits.

As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I am thrilled to share my knowledge and passion by hosting my workshops, enriching the lives of fellow photography enthusiasts, and nurturing their creative endeavors.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey of a photographer is often riddled with obstacles, each one a test of resilience and determination.

From the frustration of broken equipment to battling the unpredictable forces of nature, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges along the way. However, the most daunting hurdle came in the form of an unexpected diagnosis: mold illness and chronic fatigue syndrome resulting from exposure to a mold-infested environment.

For the past two years, I’ve been on a relentless journey toward recovery, grappling with debilitating symptoms and striving to regain my health and vitality. While the road has been arduous, I am grateful to have made significant progress in restoring my energy levels to their former glory. This journey has taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, self-care, and the profound resilience of the human spirit.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe you can tell us more about your work next?
I specialize in crafting captivating fine art landscapes and mesmerizing astrophotography, with a particular focus on capturing the ethereal beauty of the Milky Way. One of the defining moments of my career came when my work was selected for the prestigious My Colorado exhibition, showcasing at Denver International Airport for an impressive two-year stint.

Among thousands of submissions, my photograph—a stunning portrayal of the Flat Irons nestled in a snowy Boulder landscape—earned its place among the chosen few, filling me with an overwhelming sense of pride and accomplishment. Additionally, my artistic endeavors have garnered recognition in various esteemed art shows, including securing 1st place in Photography at both a Washington exhibition and a Longmont Artists Guild showcase. Notably, I clinched top honors and the coveted People’s Choice award at the Boulder County Fair.

Moreover, my photographic prowess has been showcased in distinguished publications such as Outdoor Photography Magazine, Landscape Photography Magazine, Colorado Country Life, and 303 Magazine, further solidifying my presence in fine art photography. My distinctive style hinges on the bold and vibrant use of colors. While I strive for realism in my subjects, I accentuate hues to their fullest potential, infusing my work with vividness and vitality.

Additionally, I curate each composition, meticulously removing distracting elements to ensure the viewer’s focus remains undisturbed. Despite my roots in photography, I consider myself more akin to an artist, as I approach each capture as an opportunity for creative expression and visual storytelling.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
One of the things I cherish most about living in the Denver area is the plethora of outdoor activities available at my fingertips.

From hiking and backpacking to exploring the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, there’s never a shortage of adventures waiting to be had. Recently, I’ve expanded my outdoor pursuits by investing in an e-bike, opening up new avenues for exploration. Additionally, with a kayak in tow, there are endless opportunities to discover hidden gems in the nearby waterways.

However, the one drawback to this bustling area is the traffic congestion, which can sometimes hinder the joy of venturing outdoors. To navigate this challenge, I plan my outings during off-peak hours, ensuring smoother journeys and more enjoyable natural experiences.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espyphoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspressoYourselfPhotography

Image Credits
Espresso Yourself Photography