We were lucky to catch up with Jenifer Brandner recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jenifer, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
I have dreamt of owning my own photography business since I was a small child. My dad gave me my first canon film camera when I was 10 years old. Looking through that viewfinder made the world seem so much smaller. I noticed the most insignificant of details, taking joy in photographing them. Photography changed my perspective of the world around me. I guess that is why I can find beauty in anything, the way the sun falls across the grass in the last light of the day, the illumination of neon signs on a wet street, the honesty of my son’s genuine grin. I absolutely love photographing people; it brings me so much joy to boost their confidence and provide them with a wonderful experience in front of the camera. For the past few years, I have been photographing High School Seniors which has been so much fun. We have created so many amazing memories for them to cherish. However, over the past year I realized how much I struggled to create my own content, it is hard to be in front of the camera and behind it at the same time. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to own a business and not necessarily be creative, trying to wear all the hats and do all the things. That is when I realized I need to help people like me who have had a dream to craft a life doing what they love. So, this year I have pivoted my photography business to a mission of “Helping Small Businesses Realize BIG Dreams.”
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am creative at heart. Photography is my first love, but I also had a career as a graphic designer for 10 years within a large corporation. Having a background in advertising has helped me produce imagery for clients to convey who they are, what they do and help them step into the spotlight. It is so rewarding to collaborate with small business owners, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to help them move closer to that next milestone, to highlight their products or services. What sets me apart is not only my strong, creative ability but also my love for business which helps me to think like a consumer when strategizing for my clients’ branding sessions. I would say I am most proud of the quality work I provide my clients, and an experience that keeps them coming back. My goal is to build relationships with my clients while solving the creative issues they face.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I think the most rewarding aspect of being creative is using it to help others. I know whether I am photographing for an individual, small business, or a brand, I know my work will help them reach the next level.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
I believe we all hold the ability to nuture our creative sides. For some it’s writing, painting, dancing, singing, sewing, building, welding, the list is endless. Find whatever brings you joy and don’t measure its worth by how well someone else can do it. There is only one you. Go create.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Jenifer Brandner Photography