We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jona Deocampo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jona below.
Hi Jona, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
Leaping into a new career in photography was the biggest risk I’ve ever taken, and it ignited a spark within me that I never knew existed. My journey began with something as simple as picking up a camera and watching YouTube tutorials to familiarize myself with the settings, a step that seemed intimidating yet fascinating. I faced the uncertainty head-on by driving to my favorite spot near Garden of the Gods in Colorado to shoot my first couple session at sunrise, pushing past my introverted nature to meet new people and offer free sessions to practice. For a military wife, isolated with a newborn baby post-COVID and without nearby family in Colorado, photography became more than just a hobby; it was a lifeline. It pulled me out of my solitude and helped me break free from the confines of my comfort zone. The risk I took didn’t just lead to a new career; it also gave me a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger sense of identity beyond the roles of wife and mom. Taking this risk allowed me to tap into a creative space I didn’t know I had and forced me to embrace a side of myself I hadn’t fully seen before.
Jona, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Becoming a mother made me realize how crucial it is to capture fleeting moments. As a military wife without family nearby at the time, I often found myself alone, yearning for photos of my daughter and me together. Since my memory isn’t the best, I rely on how photos transport me back in time and evoke the emotions of that moment. Before I became a mom, I was passionate about photography, particularly landscapes, landmarks, and animals. In my early 20s, I even aspired to work for National Geographic. However, it was the desire to document my daughter’s growth that truly sparked my interest in photography. The need to safeguard these invaluable memories transformed my interest into a calling, leading me to view photography as a means to preserve the fleeting, beautiful moments in people’s lives. What truly sets me apart as a photographer is my patience, passion, and vibrant energy, coupled with my ability to make clients feel at ease. I firmly believe that instilling confidence and creating a comfortable atmosphere is essential for capturing genuine emotions. When clients feel relaxed in their own skin, the magic happens. I take immense pride in being your photographer, and I strive to tailor every session to reflect your unique personality. My goal is to ensure that each moment we create together feels authentic and special, allowing your true essence to shine through in every shot.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding part of being a creative is receiving heartfelt feedback from my clients, especially when they choose to use their photos as their profile pictures or for announcing major life events like engagements or elopements. Seeing couples share their milestones with the images I’ve captured fills me with such a sense of honor and satisfaction. It truly warms my heart and fuels my passion, knowing that my work plays a part in celebrating their special moments and becomes a cherished part of their lives.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
I think non-creatives might find it hard to grasp that sometimes, even the most passionate artists can experience a creative burnout, leaving their inspiration feeling utterly drained and discouraging. During these challenging times, I’ve learned to navigate the dry spells by initiating projects that truly excite me. Posting a model call or diving into creative ventures that spark joy helps me rekindle my passion. By focusing on what makes me happy and seeking fresh inspiration, I can push through those tough periods and reignite my creative drive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jonadeocampophotography.com/
- Instagram: @jonadeocampo.photography
Image Credits
Jona Deocampo Photography