Meet Trailblazer Catherine Jeter

Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Jeter.

Catherine, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started photography in 2007, after the birth of my first baby. My husband and I took him to the mall for baby photos, and we spent so much money on photos that were just so-so. As we left, I turned to my husband and suggested we buy a camera–I could learn photography, and the investment would pay for itself quickly since we would no longer be paying for professional photos.

I had no idea that this endeavor to save money would actually turn in to my full-time job–in fact, I was in the middle of getting my law degree when we bought the camera!

Gradually, people saw the photos I was taking of my son and they began reaching out to ask me if I would be interested in taking THEIR photos. Sure! Why not? So, I started charging a little here and there.

I created an indoor space for studio shots.
I was offered money for my first wedding.
I began seeing familiar faces, as people would come back for more.

Before I knew it, I had a little business going. And, knowing how passionate I was about photography, I began to focus on turning that little business into a big one. Now, 12 years later, I am supporting my family with weddings and family photos, as well as the occasional boudoir shoot. It is literally a dream come true!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road to a successful business has never been smooth. I have certainly had many ups and downs.

At one point, my family and I moved across the country and I was left to start over for the very first time. I struggled for two years to build my business up in that location, to no avail. I was only able to secure a handful of family shoots, and two weddings–in two years! That was definitely a low point for me–I felt so hopeless!

Thankfully, we then moved across the country again, and my luck changed. My business caught on pretty quickly in our new town, and it continues to grow today!

After having experienced struggles like this, I would recommend that anyone who is starting a business–or starting OVER in a business–not to give up. There are so many factors that contribute to your success, and a small handful of them are out of your control (i.e. location, economy). But PERSEVERE. You will eventually figure out how to climb that mountain or how to ride that wave. And what’s on the other side is so, so sweet!

We’d love to hear more about Catherine Jeter Photography.
I specialize in family and wedding photography. I also teach boudoir workshops and do a handful of boudoir shoots every year.

I am known for my bold, colorful style–and often, people note that I capture really meaningful candid photos. I think that is what makes me most proud–I really enjoy trying to capture people just as they are. So, when I am told that I have done exactly that–capturing someone’s true spirit, or their true smile–I feel really fulfilled as both a professional and also as an artist.

Finally, I think my pricing sets me apart from most other professional photographers. I believe I have found a good balance between “I am worth X amount,” and, “I want everyone to be able to afford beautiful memories.” As someone who lost someone very special just a couple years ago, all I have left are photos–and I want to be able to provide that for anyone else who finds real value in photography.

So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
I feel like women have so, so many opportunities these days. I would certainly argue that they are faced with more opportunities than they are faced with challenges.

What’s important is that we, as women, understand that hard work and grit is what will get us the things we deserve. We should never be awarded a position or a job, based solely on our sex. If we do accept these things, we will literally unravel all of the hard work that has been done by the women who have come before us, and fought so hard for us to have so many wonderful opportunities.

I am a true believer in hard work. In professionalism. In loyalty. In education.

Any woman who works hard and commits to being successful WILL find opportunities. It may be slower for some or it may seem more difficult for others–but the important thing is that you walk the path designed for you, and do your very best.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.catherinejeter.com
• Email: catherinejeter@mac.com
• Instagram: @catherinejeterphotography
• Facebook: @catherinejeterphotography

Image Credit:
All images property of Catherine Jeter Photography

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