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

Hi Jennifer, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

I’ve always been the “picture taker” in my friend group and family – the one who could be counted on to document whatever event or fun was happening. When my husband and I had our first kid, I immediately knew I needed to be better at taking pictures so I could capture every moment of her childhood. So, I got a better camera, started taking classes, and practicing. Eventually, my daughter stopped wanting to be my test subject so much, so I needed other kids to practice on. I started taking portraits and “family photos” for friends for free and for fun. I got better. I took more classes, I practiced as much as possible. Eventually, people I only kind of knew were asking me to take their family photos and some even asked me what I charged. The idea that someone would want to actually pay me money to do this work that I loved so much was a terrifying revelation. I didn’t feel qualified. I felt like an imposter (I sometimes still do). But, I decided I needed to set those fears aside, and give this business a real try. I took even MORE classes (this time on running a photography business), set up a simple website, and declared myself open for business!

Jennifer, 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?

I am a Family, Newborn, and Portrait Photographer and owner of JMark Photography in Seattle, WA. My superpower is getting people who “hate having their picture taken” to take a good photograph AND have fun while doing so. A family can book me to spend an hour or so with them at a local park or beach or in the comfort of their home taking photographs as they play and spend time together. My goal is to provide clients a balanced portfolio of traditional family portraits (everyone looking at the camera and smiling) and more candid images that capture the true beauty of being with the people you love. I have two little girls of my own and am delighted by the unique energy and personality of each individual kid I meet (even the “biggest” kids-at-heart). Snapping the “perfect” picture will be different for every family and finding that moment brings me endless joy.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My work really centers around the kids I meet during my sessions. I want them to feel not just comfortable with me, but truly seen and heard. I spend a lot time talking with each kid, meeting them where they are and not asking them to be anyone but themselves. The best photographs of kids are the ones where they are happy to be having their picture taken. Not told to “smile naturally” and forced to stare at the camera. I can usually convince any kid to take that stand and smile picture, but first I need to build trust with them. We play, chat, explore, and just relax during my sessions. Kids are so interesting and getting to know each child I work with is the true joy of my business.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Family photography is mostly a solo business and can be very isolating. A couple years into my work, I found a local photography studio, North City Studio, run by two amazing woman who have been in the business for much longer than me. They were looking to actively build community with other photographers and were setting up monthly meetups and speaker sessions to help form these connections. I started attending and have met the most amazing people (mostly other woman small business owners). I wish I had known sooner the comfort and joy of having a network of people doing similar work to me. Having someone you can text or call or chat with about your business challenges and successes. I was worried the competition between us might be a barrier but instead we all lift each other up. There’s more than enough families in Seattle for everyone and we are better together!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jmarkseattle.com/
• Instagram: @jmark.seattle
• Facebook: JMark Photography Seattle