Check Out Jess Alexander’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Alexander.

Hi Jess, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey as a photographer has been quite a personal one, beginning as early as my toddler years. I have this old Polaroid picture of a sunset that I took when I was just twenty-three months old, and on the back, there’s a handwritten message from my mom— “Jessica’s first attempt at photography.” Sadly, she passed away when I was only four, and my dad followed a few years later. Losing them at such a young age made me realize the incredible power of photographs as a way to hold onto cherished memories. Those images became my lifeline to them, allowing me to connect with them even after they were gone. I’m eternally grateful that my parents captured those moments and wrote messages on the back with cute descriptions. It’s like a time capsule that lets me revisit memories that might otherwise have faded away.

Fast forward to motherhood, and my camera became an extension of myself, documenting every precious moment with my two incredible children. As they grew, I found myself volunteering at their schools, helping both in and out of the classroom. Whether it was capturing class parties, taking pictures on field trips, or participating in fundraisers and community events, I was always eager to lend a hand and take a few pictures. Eventually, the school asked me to take pictures for fundraisers and community events, which led to opportunities to photograph family portraits and later, high school seniors. Throughout this journey, I was constantly learning, building my portfolio, and donating my time and talent to support our community schools.

High school senior portraits hold a special place in my heart. It’s incredibly rewarding to work with seniors who I’ve known and photographed since they were in kindergarten, witnessing their individual growth as they transition into adulthood. Each session is unique, and I’m passionate about capturing the essence of who they are beyond just snapping pictures.

Now that my own children are older, I’ve taken on a new role supporting students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at our local middle school. It’s another way for me to give back to a community that has embraced me as their photographer. The students and educators I work with are the real difference-makers, and I’m excited to continue supporting the special education program and finding ways for my high school clients to get involved.

Ultimately, I want to combine the things in life that bring me the most joy—photography, community, and service. In every photo I take, I aim to tell a story that captures empathy, connection, and the beauty of life’s fleeting moments. That’s what truly drives me as a 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?
Navigating the journey of building my photography business has been both rewarding and challenging. One of the greatest hurdles I’ve encountered is grappling with imposter syndrome, which often creeps in when I least expect it. Overcoming this internal struggle has been pivotal in recognizing the value I bring to my clients through my artistry and expertise.

Another challenge I’ve faced is determining my worth and confidently charging for it. Photography isn’t just about capturing images; it’s about storytelling and evoking emotions. Communicating the value of my work and setting fair prices has been a learning process, but it’s essential for sustaining my business and honoring the craft.

In terms of pricing, I prefer an all-inclusive approach rather than a session fee with a la carte pricing for images. I find that I feel much better about each session when I can overdeliver on images and do so for a fair and moderate price that was known upfront. While this may not always be the most profitable approach, I’ve come to accept that my personal happiness and the satisfaction of my clients matter more than maximizing profits.

Moreover, the cost of doing business, from investing in quality equipment to marketing efforts, has been a constant consideration. Balancing these expenses while staying competitive in the market requires careful financial planning and strategic decision-making.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance has been paramount. While my passion for photography drives me, I recognize the importance of allocating time for personal pursuits and relationships. However, I’ve also grappled with moments of mom guilt, questioning whether I’m doing enough to support my own kids. The unrealistic expectations society places on parents to effortlessly balance career and family life can weigh heavily. Thankfully, I’m incredibly lucky to have an amazing and supportive husband and partner. He encourages me to let go of the mom guilt and enjoy the moment wherever I happen to be.

Creating this healthy balance enables me to recharge creatively and deliver my best work to my clients. Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, indulging in recreational activities like snowboarding and hiking, or simply unwinding with music, downtime is essential for rejuvenating my creativity and overall well-being.

Attending concerts at Red Rocks with my family is among my cherished pastimes, offering inspiration and respite from the demands of work. Learning to say no to certain projects has been crucial in safeguarding this balance, allowing me to prioritize personal fulfillment alongside professional commitments.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart in high school senior photography is my unwavering commitment to creating images that truly reflect the senior’s vision and personality. I prioritize understanding their desires and aspirations, ensuring that every shot captures their essence authentically. While this may not always align with the expectations of parents, I believe it’s essential to honor the senior’s individuality and preferences. That said, I also recognize the importance of creating images that resonate with the wider family, especially grandparents who may have their own expectations. That’s why, alongside fulfilling the senior’s wishes, I always manage to capture a picture or two that grandparents will proudly display on their fridge. It’s about striking a balance between honoring the senior’s vision and creating timeless memories that are cherished by the entire family. This personalized approach and attention to detail are what set my high school senior photography apart.

In addition, I offer a popular Senior Seasons package that allows seniors up to four custom sessions. Many of our area schools have early yearbook submission deadlines that don’t always coordinate with my clients’ preferred season. This package is a great option for clients wanting to showcase various sports and interests or multiple locations, from urban to mountain settings. It ensures that seniors have the flexibility to capture their unique personalities and experiences throughout the year, creating a comprehensive portfolio that reflects their diverse interests and passions.

I also include in-person planning with all of my sessions, as I believe in getting to know my senior before I even pick up my camera. We engage in discussions about their vision, covering everything from locations to outfit selection and editing preferences. Actively listening to their input, I strive to ensure that my seniors’ voices and visions are present in their images. This collaborative approach not only strengthens our connection but also results in photographs that truly resonate with the senior’s personality and style. It’s this dedication to personalized service and genuine connection that has parents and seniors actively marketing for me, and I’m honored to have built my business on referrals from satisfied clients.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my photography journey is the importance of nailing it in camera to simplify editing later. It’s all about paying attention to every little detail while shooting. From making sure hair is in place to adjusting jewelry and concealing bra straps, getting things right from the start saves a ton of time during post-processing. Not only does this approach speed up the editing process, but it also adds a genuine touch to the final images, capturing authentic moments and expressions with finesse.

Moreover, understanding natural light and mastering off-camera flash techniques has been a game-changer for me. Appreciating the subtleties of natural light allows me to adapt to different lighting conditions seamlessly. Whether it’s the warm glow of golden hour or the soft light of an overcast day, knowing how to work with light enhances the beauty of my subjects straight out of the camera. Plus, being skilled in off-camera flash gives me the flexibility to tackle tricky lighting situations and unleash my creativity. By blending natural light with well-placed flashes, I can elevate the mood and ambiance of my photographs, ensuring every detail shines just right. This comprehensive grasp of lighting not only improves the quality of my work but also infuses my images with depth and authenticity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jessalexanderphotography.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/jess.alexanderphotography/
• Facebook: Facebook.com/JAlexander.Memories

Image Credits
Jess Alexander Photography