Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jennifer Starr. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jennifer, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
I’ve always felt having tangible memories of family is SO important. This of course includes pets too. After our loved ones are gone, photos are what we hold close and help us reminisce about happy times. A couple years into my pet photography journey, I created Going with Grace, offering my custom photography services for senior or critically ill pets at a reduced rate. I hoped offering a discount would encourage more people to have their pets photographed, since so many are also juggling the expenses of end of life care.
I always tell people to think of this session like they would any other photo session. Just because it’s a session for aging or ill dogs doesn’t mean it will be sad. My advice is not to let that apprehension drive your decision to have a photo session. I’ve been told numerous times how pleasant the experience is and sometimes clients are even shocked how their pet behaves as if they aren’t even sick. Something about the new experience and exciting atmosphere brings life back into some pets.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
It’s important for me to stay strong for the pet parents in these photos. I mean, if I can’t hold it together, how can I expect them to? With that said, I’ve absolutely cried at my computer as I edit images. It’s usually when I am scrolling through the images and reflect on the microexpressions of my clients – expressions I wasn’t even aware of while I was shooting. It takes a toll on my heart but hearing how much the photos mean to people is what keeps me strong and dedicated to the cause. I just always hope these moments I freeze in time will bring pet parents some peace during the difficult days ahead.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
These sessions are unique because they are pets who are critically ill and do pass away sometimes days, weeks or months after our session. I stay in contact with my clients to check in about the health of their pet. I also send a special card and gift once I hear the heartbreaking news that their pet has passed. I also offer rainbow bridge/angel wing edits to a personalized photo to help their hearts heal.
Contact Info:
- Website: jennifer@
fixyourimages.com - Instagram: www.instagram.com/
fixyourimages - Facebook: www.facebook.com/
fixyourimages - Other: TikTok: https://www.
tiktok.com/@fixyourimages
Image Credits
Marie Photography – Headshot
Jen Starr – Pet Photos