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

Jean, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

Yes, photography has been my full-time income for over 20 years, though my journey as a photographer began more than four decades ago. I got my start in high school, working at a JCPenney portrait studio, and from there I was hooked. I went on to study photography in college and spent many years doing side jobs related to the craft—everything from assisting to freelancing—continually honing my skills and deepening my passion for creating meaningful portraits.

Around 2015, I took a major step and launched Pearlescent Portraits, followed later by Adored Boudoir Photography. These businesses allowed me to fully embrace my creative vision and focus on delivering an exceptional, personal experience to each client.

It definitely wasn’t an overnight success—it took time, persistence, and plenty of lessons learned along the way. One of the most important things I’ve learned (and something I wish I’d understood sooner) is the value of pricing your work properly. Many new photographers underprice themselves, often basing their rates on what they think clients are willing to pay rather than on their actual cost of doing business and the profit they need to sustain a career. That mindset can lead to burnout and financial strain.

There’s also a misconception today that owning a decent camera makes someone a professional. But true artistry and professionalism go far beyond equipment—it’s about creating a thoughtful, elevated experience and artwork that will be cherished for generations. If I could go back, I would have trusted my worth earlier and been more confident in pricing for the quality and service I provide.

Jean, 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?

At Pearlescent Portraits, we don’t just take photos—we create meaningful experiences that culminate in timeless works of art, designed to be cherished for generations. Our studio specializes in Senior Portraits, Family Portraits, Engagement and Couples sessions, as well as Headshots and Personal Branding.

For example, when a high school senior books their session with us, it’s not just a quick photo shoot—it’s a carefully curated experience. We begin with a design consultation to discuss their personality, goals, style, interests, and values. We plan every detail, from locations and outfits to meaningful accessories. On the day of their session, professional hair and makeup help set the tone, giving them a boost of confidence while allowing them to feel pampered and relaxed. Multiple outfit changes let us fully showcase who they are at this exciting turning point in life. Every image is meticulously edited so they look like the best, most authentic version of themselves.

In today’s world, nearly everyone has a camera in their pocket and low-cost photographers are easy to find—but what often gets lost in that convenience is the experience, the storytelling, and the artistry. Yes, you can meet someone in the park for a quick session and walk away with a handful of digital files, but will those images truly tell your story? Will they live on a phone, forgotten on a USB stick, or will they become part of your family’s legacy?

That’s where we stand apart. We specialize in creating heirloom-quality artwork that becomes part of your home and your history. Maybe it’s a custom-designed album full of a senior’s favorite moments—something they’ll one day flip through with their own children. Or it’s a striking piece of wall art chosen by Mom, celebrating her child’s transition from adolescence to adulthood. These portraits are milestones in themselves—often the last professional images taken until a wedding day.

What makes Pearlescent Portraits different is the care, intention, and personal touch we bring to every session. It’s why our clients return year after year, bringing each new graduate in the family back to us. Our sessions aren’t rushed, and they’re not bargain-priced—but they’re unforgettable, deeply personal, and absolutely worth it.

If you have multiple revenue streams in your business, would you mind opening up about what those streams are and how they fit together?

In addition to running my portrait businesses, I’ve developed a thriving second revenue stream through education and mentoring for fellow photographers. With over 40 years of experience—not just behind the camera, but also in editing, client relations, marketing, pricing, hiring, and all the other moving parts of running a creative business—I’ve gained a deep understanding of what it really takes to build a sustainable, profitable photography career.

Over the years, I found myself naturally mentoring others—helping new and struggling photographers navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls, and find their confidence. That organically grew into Photography for Profits, my educational program designed to guide photographers at all stages of their journey.

Photography for Profits is more than just a course—it’s a comprehensive mentoring program built to support creatives who want to deliver quality work, provide meaningful experiences, live a balanced life, and still run a profitable business. Whether someone is just starting out or has been in the industry for years but feels stuck, I offer practical tools, strategies, and mindset shifts to help them move forward with clarity and confidence.

This second income stream not only complements my portrait work but allows me to give back to the creative community by helping shape the next generation of photographers who value both artistry and entrepreneurship.

Any fun sales or marketing stories?

One of my favorite and most unforgettable marketing leaps came from a piece of advice I initially thought was completely unrealistic. A mentor once told me, “Go big. Stop taking tiny steps—find your moment and make it count.” His suggestion? Rent the entire Ohio State University football stadium and offer exclusive portrait sessions on the field, in the stands, and even in the players’ tunnel.

My first reaction was: “Are you out of your mind? Do you know what that will cost? And what if no one books?” It felt risky, extravagant, and honestly, terrifying. But I couldn’t shake the idea. So—I did it.

That one bold move turned into an event every season of the year, and that I repeated for years, creating once-in-a-lifetime memories for hundreds of families. Was it expensive? Absolutely. Was it exhausting? Completely. I was running across the massive stadium all day, often under the hot sun, camera in hand, chasing the perfect light and genuine smiles. But it was all worth it.

One session stands out in particular: a large family beaming with Buckeye pride, gathered in the stadium for what turned out to be their final portrait together. Just days later, the family patriarch passed away suddenly from a heart attack. Those portraits—those joyful moments in a place that held deep meaning for them—became a treasured legacy for his children, grandchildren, and wife.

It reminded me why I do what I do. Portrait sessions, especially at Pearlescent Portraits, aren’t just photo shoots—they’re experiences. They’re memories frozen in time, often becoming more meaningful with each passing year. Taking that risk taught me that bold moves, while scary, can create something truly unforgettable—not just for me, but for the people I serve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://pearlescentphoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pearlescentluxuryportraits/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pearlescent-photography-llc
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PearlescentPortraits
• Other: Voice/Text: 614-333-0040

Image Credits

All images by Pearlescent Portraits.