We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jennifer Whelan a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jennifer, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Communities found connection during the global Covid19 pandemic through The Front Steps Project. This was a fundraiser started by Kristen Collins and photographer Cara Soulia that became a social media sensation as photographers captured images of families sitting — socially distanced — on front stoops and porches to raise funds for local nonprofits helping those struggling in their communities. When I saw this massive effort of goodwill I had to participate since more than 50% of students in the Hull School district qualify for free school lunch. My camera gave me a way to take my lens and help the healing of the world at an unprecedented time. Wellspring Multi-service center is a backbone in our community, helping the most needy, the elderly, the hungry. My spearheading 10 photographers to capture 200 families raised $14,000 — and spirits. Beyond the obvious immediate benefit of money, the love and laughter that emanated from these photographs at a time when all hope seemed lost nourished all participants and our community in less tangible ways. I could, through my lens, see that families still laughed, that people were eager to help, that humanity can feel close even from afar.
Neighbors learned about each other as they read each other’s bios. A video I produced for this project will give you the sense of community that cameras were able to capture. Through community action, we were transformed.

This project was the catalyst that catapulted me into taking pictures of people. While I always loved photography as a hobby, The Front Steps Project helped me see the power of connection through images.

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.

What sets me apart from other photographers is my ability to connect deeply with the moment and the people in front of my lens. I don’t just capture smiles or poses; I capture the essence of the experience, the unguarded, heartfelt moments that reveal true emotion. I have a unique talent for making people feel seen, especially those who may initially be hesitant or self-conscious about being photographed. My gift lies in my empathy, patience, and genuine love for storytelling through images, turning fleeting moments into timeless memories that evoke emotions for generations to come.
I care deeply about the results of my photography. And, by that, I don’t just mean the clicking of the shutter. I am continuously enhancing my education, taking more classes, buying a new flash or lens. I am in constant contact with my clients — from the moment of booking to moving the time slot up an hour or back depending on the light and the weather forecast. Clients appreciate the personal touch, the attention to detail, and the care both pre AND post shoot in the editing suite.
I specialize in sessions with high school seniors, engagements, and family portraits. Milestones that warrant the look-back memories of years to come.
I take my camera everywhere I go, and look for the landscapes and details that call for a click. You will see in my portfolio that sometimes it is a buoy and sometimes a far-away surfer carrying his board. Some of my captures are available for purchase as prints and gifts.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I have a Master’s in Speech Language Pathology and worked with traumatic brain injury and stroke victims, as well as in Early Intervention with young kids. I was trained to observe, listen, and respond to people’s unspoken emotions. In many ways, photography echoes my work as a Speech Pathologist. In both professions, the goal is to connect with people, foster understanding, and help them express their true selves. Where I was helping people learn to communicate with words and gestures, I now help them communicate through visual storytelling. Photography allows me to tap into those same skills of empathy and observation, capturing the unspoken emotions and moments that reveal the true essence of my clients. Whether through speech or images, my mission remains the same: to help people connect, express themselves, and see the beauty in their unique journey. Photography, like Speech Pathology, allows me to support others in discovering their unique voice — but now, instead of words, I work with light, composition, and candid moments. Through my lens, I capture the spirit of who they are, helping them see themselves in ways they may not have before.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

My reputation has grown organically through word of mouth. I’ve never had to place an ad or pay for promotion because my clients do the talking for me. From our very first conversation to the final image delivery, I stay connected with each subject, making sure they feel comfortable and confident. We collaborate on everything from mood boards and poses to adapting to weather changes and refining shot lists. This personalized approach ensures that every session feels tailored, and my clients appreciate the attention to detail. One happy client tells another, and the cycle continues, allowing my reputation to grow naturally, built on trust and genuine connections.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jenniferlynnephotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.lynne.photography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HullVillage/

Image Credits

All photographs are by me – Jennifer Lynne Photography (Jennifer Whelan) except for my personal photo which was taken by Caleb Whelan