Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jackie Mccool. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jackie , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

With over 25 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in weddings, high school seniors, families, and pets, I had an unexpected spark of inspiration while sitting at a brewery with my family. Surrounded by people enjoying the day with their dogs, I realized how breweries are more than just places for a pint—they’re community hubs. Watching dog owners try to capture those “cute” moments, I suddenly had an idea for a photography project: Beer Dogs Virginia.

As the concept took shape, I realized there was much more to do than just snapping photos. I dove into research, scouting the right breweries, and curating the perfect look for each session. Along the way, I also had to learn InDesign, figure out how to format a book, and find an editor to bring this vision to life. With a goal to publish by the end of 2024, I was determined to make Beer Dogs Virginia an authentic, creative representation of both the brewery culture and my brand.

I believe I achieved that goal, and now I’m focused on promoting the book and using everything I’ve learned to strengthen my connections with Virginia’s breweries, all while keeping dogs at the heart of it. Beer Dogs Virginia is just the beginning—I’m excited to continue celebrating the vibrant brewery culture and the furry friends who make it even better

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Much of my passion for photography was sparked early on. When I was 12, my father took a double exposure image of me sitting in front of our fireplace. When the film came back, I was amazed to see myself seemingly floating in the flames—that moment hooked me for life! From that day on, photography became more than just a hobby; it became a lifelong pursuit of capturing unique, unforgettable moments.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

To grow my clientele, I rely heavily on word of mouth—it’s always at the top of my list! Along with that, I make sure to stay current with the latest photography trends and technology by continuing my education and staying connected through professional organizations like the Professional Photographers of America and the Virginia Professional Photographers Association. This combination of personal referrals and industry knowledge has been key to expanding my reach and delivering high-quality work.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Pivoting is inevitable in life and business, and I’ve always believed in staying flexible, adaptable, and open to learning. One of the biggest shifts in my career was moving from film to digital photography. It wasn’t just a change in tools but an entirely new way of thinking about my craft. At first, it was daunting, but I embraced the technology and soon saw how it could enhance my work. More recently, I’ve adapted to the rise of AI, learning how it can streamline business processes and even assist in creative projects. Each pivot has made me a stronger photographer and entrepreneur, always ready to evolve with the times.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jackiemccoolphoto.com
• Instagram: jackiemccoolphoto
• Facebook: Jackie McCool Photo
• Linkedin: Jackie McCool Photo

Image Credits

Jackie McCool Photo