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

Jennifer, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Last year, I lost my mother, an event that profoundly reshaped my perspective on life. If there’s any silver lining to be found amid such a loss, it’s the powerful desire it ignites within us to live.

The lingering notion that we are all on borrowed time pushed me to dismantle my life and reconstruct it to align with who I am today and who I aspire to be. The first bold move was leaving behind a secure, well-paying job to pursue my dream of owning my own photography business. Although this journey has not been without its challenges, it’s one I’m truly embracing with open arms. I read a quote that said, “5 years ago, you dreamed about where you are now,” and that could not be more true. Had I not taken that risk, I would still be working a 9-5 and helping someone else achieve their dreams and not mine.

I’ve intentionally stepped out of my comfort zone, both in my personal and professional life. I’ve become a “yes” person, willing to risk it all for the things I love and believe in. Take the risk – that’s the mantra I repeat to myself every day, reminding myself that every decision I make is the one I was meant to make.

Giving myself permission to be bold, loud, and daring has led me to a beautiful new chapter in my life. I now have an unwavering belief in trusting the process.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Photography is my greatest passion, it has taught me to find beauty in every corner of life. In my early days, it wasn’t about fancy equipment or studio lighting – it was about capturing the world as I saw it. I gravitated towards photographing abandoned places and cemeteries, hoping to inspire others to appreciate the overlooked.

In my twenties, I immersed myself in the LA art scene but soon realized its limitations, as very few artists can sustain themselves solely through this kind of work. This realization prompted me to enroll in art school. It truly broadened my horizons, revealing the incredible possibilities within photography and fundamentally reshaping my perspective. It was, without a doubt, a game-changing moment for me.

After graduating, my journey led me to manage photography studios, where I developed a deep affinity for portraiture. What truly captivates me is the intimate nature of the creative process and becoming a part of someone’s unique journey. I wake up every day knowing what a privilege it is to do what I love each day.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

There’s nothing more important to me than making sure my clients have a fantastic experience. My background is rooted in customer service. So, I know the value of ensuring someone’s happiness.

I offer the kind of experience I’d want for myself. I’m all ears, always here to support you, and I aim to provide something beyond just good photos. Many of my clients have turned into great friends, and I’m here because they trust me and have referred me to friends, family, and even strangers. It’s a common misstep for many creative business owners to overlook the fact that a happy and content client is not only likely to return but also eager to share their positive experience with others. I’m immensely grateful for the wonderful individuals I’ve had the privilege of working with, I am here because of them.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I once read that being an artist is its own reward, and I couldn’t agree more. Every morning, I wake up with the opportunity to create something entirely new, something that would not exist in the world if I hadn’t brought it to life. I don’t know what else I could ask for and that right is the prize.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jenniferpopperl.com
• Instagram: @eyewatchphoto

Image Credits
Photos are by me: @eyewatchphoto (Jennifer Popperl)