Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jesikah Black. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jesikah, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s kick things off with a hypothetical question – if it were up to you, what would you change about the school or education system to better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career?

This is a great question and as a substitute teacher and yearbook staff, I would change quite a few things about the educational system. First and foremost, I would equip the teachers with adequate pay and resources. Depending on student needs, having available assistance for behavioral/academic support would help tremendously. Secondly, a more heart, head and hand centered education that focuses on helping children learn through play. Teaching kindness and gentleness and confidence building in who they are as a person and what they are good at would be so beneficial. I think there is too much emphasis on pushing kids through the system with a one size fits all education. Lastly, having available mental health and school counselors for the children. So many little ones have experienced trauma and need to work through it before trying to keep up with peers in the classroom. There is quite a bit more but this would be a great start!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I have a fondness for videography and photography! The creativity of it all brings me a lot of joy. I have a degree in multi media and spent a few years taking photos for pleasure. That is, until one day a friend asked if I would take family photos. The rest is history! I’ve been a family/wedding/portrait photographer for over a decade and I enjoy it immeasurably. I enjoy having fun with my clients and getting genuine smiles and laughter. Even the most camera shy client ends up having a lot of fun during a session. And thats what I strive for!

I’m a wife, mom, lactation counselor and artist. I think all of these things together make me the family photographer I am today. I know how important these photos are and that they are capturing a special time in that family’s life. I take that very seriously and my work means the world to me! And so does your family!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the feeling I get when a shot comes together harmoniously and then seeing my clients face light up when they receive their investment. It’s such a beautiful partnership of creativity and trust.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of new clients for me has been word of mouth! I find it difficult to find time for marketing and I’ve noticed when clients share their photos and their experience, their friends want my contact information! I also keep my online presence positive and drama free. I need to be the face of my business by keeping it professional online.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jesikahblackphotography.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JesikahBlackPhotos