Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jennifer Wilson-bibbs. 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. The first dollar you earn in a new endeavor is always special. We’d love to hear about how you got your first client that wasn’t a friend or family.
Absolutely! I was volunteering as a photographer for Indiana Fashion Week, which was my first big gig. I arrived at the Hilbert Circle Theatre feeling pretty nervous. Right as I walked in, I met Amanda Kingsbury, who looked as lost as I felt. Turns out, she was a model for Textile Artist Emily Gartner and had no clue where to go either. We bonded over our shared confusion and nerves and ended up laughing and enjoying the event together.
Just before the evening fashion show, Amanda asked if I had a card and if I did event photography. Despite it being my first event, I confidently said yes. Later, I found out she was the Director of Marketing for the Indianapolis Arts Council! She ended up being my first client, hiring me to take photos for the council. Talk about being in the right place at the right time! It’s like fate decided to throw me a bone—or in this case, a camera.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I woke up nervous on the day of my first big volunteer gig as a photographer for Indiana Fashion Week. When I arrived at the Hilbert Circle Theatre, I encountered Amanda Kingsbury, who was also unsure of where to go. She was walking the runway as a model for Textile Artist Emily Gartner. We bonded over our shared nervousness and spent the day talking, laughing, and enjoying the event.
As the evening fashion show was about to begin, Amanda asked if I had a card and if I took photos of events. I said yes, even though this was my first event. Later, she messaged me as Amanda Kingsbury, Director of Marketing for the Indianapolis Arts Council. I had no idea she held that title. She was the first person to hire me as a photographer for the Indianapolis Arts Council. I started as a candid photographer, and my passion grew as I explored diverse photography styles. I love drawing my audience into my vision through my lens, capturing moments in time.
From there, I began submitting portraits to magazines and have been published in over 40 local, national, and international magazines. I photograph fashion designers and hold contracts with three different organizations in Indianapolis. I’ve photographed musical concerts, including Lil Boosie and Scarface, and currently have photos exhibited at the downtown central library. Photography is my passion, and I’ve worked with many people around Indiana, always aiming to capture valuable moments.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
One thing I wish I had known about earlier in my creative journey is the importance of understanding the business side of photography and utilizing resources such as grants and business loans. I am grateful to have friends like Alicia Sims who have helped me grow into a business owner.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
What I believe helps build my reputation in the market is a combination of my talents and personality. I connect with different people by being dependable, friendly, and flexible, and I offer fair pricing. I hold myself to a higher standard in my work. Photography is not only my passion but also therapeutic for me. I love capturing moments and then editing them to reflect my vision. Sharing my photos and taking people through the storytelling process of my work allows me to deliver my vision in a tangible way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lifethroughjennseyes.com
- Instagram: lifethroughjennseyes
- Linkedin: Jennifer Wilson Life Through Jenns Eyes Photography
- Other: website
https://kavyar.com/lifethroughjennseyes
Image Credits
Jennifer Wilson Bibbs= Life Through Jenns Eyes Photography