We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jenny Bogios. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jenny below.
Jenny, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
Taking Risks
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Do one thing every day that scares you.”
I try to live by that. Sometimes I take calculated risks. Other times, I dive in headfirst. Life is full of uncertainty—but that’s what makes it meaningful. Only the dead stop taking risks. And I am very much alive.
Here’s my story:
“After earning a Master of Arts in Geography from CSU East Bay, I made a bold choice—to follow my passion for photography instead of pursuing a path in academia or research. I threw myself into learning: taking classes, attending seminars, and absorbing anything that would help me grow creatively.
In 2016, I left my regular job and was hired as an independent contractor for a wedding photography company based on the East Coast, working with clients in the Bay Area. That marked the official start of my journey in wedding photography.
I was just getting started and didn’t expect much of myself. But choosing a creative path over a conventional one was the biggest risk I’d ever taken—and it gave me the freedom to fully invest in my craft.
Later, I joined another large wedding photography company, also based on the East Coast. The experience was invaluable, but deep down, I knew I wanted more: independence, ownership, and creative control.
In 2020, I took another leap and rented a photography studio. Then the pandemic hit, and clients disappeared. Instead of stepping back, I leaned into the moment. I used that time to learn from the studio owner—a skilled photographer who became both a mentor and a friend. She taught me about studio portraiture and the business side of photography. That period of growth was transformative.
By 2021, I was managing two studios in the East Bay. Despite the stability, my dream of running my own business never left me.
In 2023, I moved to Sacramento to pursue that dream—while also working at another studio to continue sharpening my skills. It was a different style of photography, but each experience helped me evolve professionally.
One of my most recent risks was signing up for a wedding expo on my own. With limited fund, I invested in promotional materials and decided to create my own wedding albums—something I’d never done before and felt completely unprepared for. I found a company to help bring my vision to life, took the leap, and the results were stunning. I was genuinely surprised by how beautiful and professional the albums turned out.
At the expo, my booth stood out. Visitors loved the albums—many were impressed and asked about them. That effort paid off: I currently have a client who’s booked a family photoshoot in San Francisco this September and is interested in ordering an album as well.
That moment gave me a new kind of confidence.
I’ve learned that the best things often happen when you push through fear and act anyway. Whether it’s changing careers, renting a studio, launching a business, or taking on something completely new—every risk has taught me something valuable. Even when I stumble, I grow, and I keep moving forward.
Because that’s what life is: evolving, learning, and taking risks.
So take the leap. You might just surprise yourself.
Jenny, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
About Elopements by Jenny
Hello, I’m Jenny—the heart behind Elopements by Jenny. Based in Sacramento, California, my photography business serves couples and families across Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, and beyond. Whether you’re planning a wedding, elopement, engagement, family session, or special event, I am ready to travel wherever your story takes me.
I deliver high-quality digital images and beautifully designed albums that preserve memories for generations. For elopements, I go a step further—helping clients connect with trusted vendors such as makeup artists, hairstylists, florists, bakers, caterers, officiants, venues, and even travel agencies to make the experience stress-free and unforgettable. While I still capture traditional weddings, my passion and focus are destination elopements—intimate celebrations in beautiful places.
My Journey into Photography
Photography has always been a calling for me. Since childhood, I felt drawn to capturing moments through images. In 2010, I photographed a wedding as a favor, and from there, my path became clear. I invested in courses, seminars, and self-study, and in 2016 I officially began photographing weddings professionally. Over the years, I’ve worked with many wedding photography companies, gaining experience and refining my craft. Today, with my rebranded business Elopements by Jenny, I’m proud to create timeless art under a name that reflects my true vision.
My Philosophy
Customer care and storytelling are at the core of everything I do. I strive to capture love stories with authenticity and uniqueness—highlighting the raw emotions and joyful moments that define a wedding day. From laughter and happy tears to the beauty of dresses, bouquets, and celebrations, I immerse myself in each event as if I were part of it.
I know weddings can feel overwhelming, so I do more than take photos. I bring calm, joy, and encouragement—helping brides feel like the queens they are, pinning boutonnieres, organizing group shots, guiding poses, and solving problems as they arise. My goal is always to lighten the day, create ease, and ensure every client feels supported.
Why Choose Me
The greatest reward isn’t just getting paid—it’s seeing my clients overjoyed with the stunning images that preserve their once-in-a-lifetime moments. I believe photography is both an art and a gift: a way of honoring people’s most precious memories. With each wedding or elopement, I give my clients something lasting—images and albums that they will treasure and share for generations.
So, will you let me capture your precious moments? Let’s create beautiful memories together through my lens.
Instagram & TikTok: @elopementsbyjenny
Website: elopementsbyjenny.mypixieset.com
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Pivot moment
I’ve realized that growth in business doesn’t always come from working harder alone, but from working smarter together. While building my photography brand, I’ve often carried the weight by myself, but now I’m shifting toward collaboration and partnership, especially with other women business owners. I’m currently starting with a travel agency, since my passion is in elopements and destination weddings. From there, I’ll expand into meaningful collaborations with makeup artists, officiants, bakers, florists, venues, DJs, videographers, and caterers. By joining forces with these talented professionals, I’ll not only offer my couples exceptional photography but also help connect them with trusted services and products that complete their wedding experience. This vision also includes creating and offering beautiful albums and tangible keepsakes through professional printing partners, ensuring my couples receive not only memories but heirlooms. These steps allow me to better serve my clients while laying down a stronger foundation within the wedding industry — one built on community, creativity, and mutual support. Another turning point for me is rebranding. My new business name, Elopements by Jenny, feels simple, memorable, and perfectly aligned with my purpose. It’s clear, to the point, and represents the direction I want to grow. This next chapter is about expansion, collaboration, and building a legacy not just for myself, but alongside others.
Okay – so how did you figure out the manufacturing part? Did you have prior experience?
Yes, I do—on a small scale, through collaboration. Producing wedding albums once felt like a challenge, which is why I didn’t offer them for a long time. Eventually, I told myself, “Just go for it.” I partnered with a professional company that handles the printing while I design each album using their platform—a perfect balance of creativity and craftsmanship.
After exploring many options, I finally found the right partner who made the process seamless. The first albums I designed and printed came out beautifully, and I couldn’t be prouder. While each design takes time and care, the results are always worth it.
Now, not only do I provide stunning images, but I also offer albums that become cherished family heirlooms. Partnering with a trusted printing company to bring my designs to life has truly been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my clients—and for myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elopementsbyjenny.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: @elopementsbyjenny
- Other: Tiktok: @elopementsbyjenny
Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Elopements by Jenny