We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful CJ Garside. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with CJ below.

CJ, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s go back in time a bit – can you share a story of a time when you learned an important lesson during your education?

Throughout elementary and junior high, I had it in my head that I was supposed to ‘play by the books’ in order to succeed. Find the right college, get the high paying job, and ultimately dedicate yourself to it your whole life. High school came around and I still hadn’t made a decision about what career best fit me. I knew I always loved photography, but I was told time and time again that it wasn’t a real job. I had given up, and given into the corporate world, accepting that it would be my fate. At the end of my senior year, there was a guest speaker that came in talking about taking risks. How people from history are still known today for a reason. We’re meant to do more, see more of the world, and be part of something outside of ourselves. No matter how scary something may seem, try it anyway. It’s good to take risks because you will not only benefit from it, but you will learn and take it with you, wherever you go. The most important part is that you don’t give up.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Jantzen Photography was established in 2016. I chose this name, not solely because it’s my middle name, but because I wanted to stand out differently among other photographers. Being able to capture multiple aspects of photography has been a pride and joy of mine. Any session I have, my goal is to focus on the client. Their comfort, their needs, their vision, and their trust to allow me to bring it to life.

Capturing the moment, creating a memory, that’s what I shoot for.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Comparing yourself and your work to others, is not the answer. While it can peek your own curiosity to find out how others operate, create, and manage, be careful while doing so. Overtime, I found myself believing I wasn’t good enough to continue or to even do any of it in the first place. Everyone works differently, it doesn’t mean it’s bad or worse. It’s YOUR work. Be proud of it, and you’ll attract the right clients.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Besides word of mouth, I’d say consistency, especially in the world of social media. Anytime someone is trying to find out the best place to visit, best vendor, or recommended photographers, people will turn to the internet, or friends will mention a business name where they had a good experience. It’s important to be consistent in publishing any work that has been done, past or present, because in doing so, I am displaying myself and how I like to capture a subject.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jantzen.photography/ 
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/jantzenphotography?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jantzenphotography?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: [email protected]