We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jenni Summer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jenni, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
As a professional in the field of luxury photography and videography, I have honed my skills through a combination of informal education on YouTube, working under the mentorship of incredible photographers such as Zara Ashby and Melissa Shanley along with industry workshops. I also invested in incredible online courses by the giants in our industry, such as KT Merry, and The Youngrens. However, the most impactful learning is hands-on experience, and continuous learning through doing. I began 8 years ago by practicing my craft every day and photographing everything I could possibly do. From local restaurants, influencers, family and friends, coworkers, my dog, one of the biggest cheese companies, an aerospace company making supersonic jets, my coffee in the morning, the sky in the evening and everything in between. By working in every lighting condition and photographing almost everything / person / event, it provided me with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of the craft. One of the best things I did to expedite my learning process was to join with other new photographers in the area to create a meet up group where we’d photograph each other and share tips and tricks that we’ve learned along the way.
To expedite my learning process, I could have sought out more specialized training programs or workshops tailored specifically to luxury photography and videography. However, I think my vast array of subjects has actually helped me to have a very unique perspective in the industry.
The most essential skills in this field include technical proficiency in operating camera equipment, a keen eye for composition and aesthetics, proficiency in editing software, and the ability to effectively communicate and connect with clients to understand their vision and preferences. It helps to have a personality that is personable with everyone and often eases the nerves of your subjects.
Obstacles that may have stood in the way of learning more included working a full time job while building my business. I was lucky to be able to bring my photography into my workplace by doing headshots for the C-suite, new hire photos for employees, and photographing the families and friends of my coworkers. Overcoming these obstacles often required perseverance, resourcefulness, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Ultimately, the key to learning and growth in this field lies in a combination of curiosity, passion for art, dedication, and a willingness to adapt to new technologies and trends. By embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and seeking out mentorship and learning experiences, I have been able to continually enhance my skills and evolve as a professional in luxury photography and videography.
Jenni, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My journey into the world of luxury photography and videography began with a fascination with capturing the beauty of the world around me. I’ve always been drawn to the power of imagery and its ability to evoke emotion, inspire wonder, and preserve cherished memories for a lifetime.
Driven by this passion, I always carried a camera with me to every event with friends and family. I enjoyed capturing our experiences and being able to relive them again through a photograph. Over time, I explored the artistry and creativity that of photography and grew my skills through hands-on experience, collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life and creating visual narratives that resonate with depth and authenticity.
At my studio, we specialize in providing luxury photography and videography services that go beyond mere documentation to create experiences of unparalleled beauty and meaning. From capturing intimate moments at destination weddings to crafting editorial portraits that tell stories of love and connection, our work is defined by a commitment to excellence, artistry, and personalized service.
What sets us apart from others is our dedication to creating images and videos that not only reflect the beauty of the moment but also capture the essence of the human experience. We believe in going beyond the surface to reveal the depth and emotion that lie beneath, creating visual narratives that are as unique and authentic as the individuals and events they portray.
I’m most proud of the relationships we’ve built with our clients and the trust they’ve placed in us to capture their most cherished moments. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy and emotion that our work brings to their lives and to know that we’ve played a small part in preserving memories that will last a lifetime.
Ultimately, what I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about us is that we’re not just photographers and videographers—we’re storytellers, dreamers, and creators of magic. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone event or simply capturing the beauty of everyday life, we’re here to help you tell your story in a way that’s as unique and extraordinary as you are.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
During the challenging times of 2020 when business slowed down, I found resilience and opportunity in unexpected places. Recognizing the unique circumstances of the moment, I embarked on a creative journey that ultimately reshaped my business and expanded my horizons. I initiated “Front-Porch Sessions,” a novel concept where I captured my neighbors from their sidewalks, documenting the essence of that peculiar time in our lives. Leveraging my zoom 70-200mm lens, I offered family portraits and headshots while maintaining safe distances. Additionally, I pioneered Facetime Photoshoots, conducting entire sessions remotely. These innovations not only adapted to the limitations imposed by Covid and quarantine but also opened up new avenues for creativity and connection.
With extra time on my hands, I seized the opportunity to rebrand and revamp my website, laying the groundwork for future growth. Venturing into new markets, I collaborated with Threshold Events to orchestrate a styled photoshoot at a stunning venue in San Diego. Though bookings were scarce, this collaboration bore unexpected fruit when our photoshoot graced the cover of Destination I Do Magazine—a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination.
In 2021, as weddings surged again, I found myself well-prepared to meet the demand. The resilience and creativity cultivated during the challenges of 2020 equipped me to navigate the bustling wedding season confidently. Armed with insights and innovations, I embraced each opportunity with renewed passion, delivering exceptional experiences for my clients and capturing the magic of their cherished moments.
This journey taught me the invaluable lesson that in times of adversity, there is always opportunity for growth, innovation, and transformation.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I believe that each of us shares a purpose: to be aware, astonished, and, most of all, thankful. my creative journey is driven by a profound sense of purpose and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. I believe that each of us shares a fundamental purpose: to be aware, astonished, and, above all, thankful. When I pick up my camera, my mindset shifts from merely experiencing my surroundings to genuinely being aware of the beauty around me. Through portrait photography, I discover beauty within each and every person, capturing unique moments that reflect their essence and emotions. Every laugh, every scrunch of the nose is a beautiful, ephemeral moment frozen in time.
As a destination photographer, I am continuously awed by the breathtaking beauty of our planet and the interconnectedness of all living beings. My creative endeavors are guided by this appreciation of beauty and the profound connection it fosters among us. I am committed to capturing stories, moments, and feelings that endure, allowing us to reflect on the richness of life and the beauty that surrounds us. Through my lens, I seek to preserve the fleeting moments of wonder and awe, inspiring gratitude and appreciation for the world we inhabit and the people we encounter along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jennisummerstudios.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/jennisummerstudios
- Facebook: facebook.com/jennisummerstudios
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jennisummerstudios/videos
Image Credits
Photography by Jenni Summer Studios