We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jess Denton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jess below.

Hi Jess, thanks for joining us today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I see a lot of people posting on social media about the legacy they’re leaving their children, and they generally are discussing the money or business they’re leaving them. Their pride in their work is strictly based on their income and that’s what they are focused on leaving behind. While I understand this concept, I’ve never agreed with it.

I hope that the legacy I leave is joy, kindness and value. Value not only in the work I’ve created professionally, but value in relationships, in time spent, and in love felt by others. My ‘why’ in business is ‘loving other’s through self expression.’ The most important thing in my work, after of course being able to pay my bills, is building long lasting relationships and making others feel loved, beautiful and proud! To watch a teenage girl bloom in front of me as she starts feeling more comfortable in her skin as I’m photographing her is something that never gets old and will always fill my cup! To document a new mother and father snuggling their tiny newborn with complete and utter pride in their eyes is a gift I don’t take for granted. There is love surrounding me every single day with what I do and the business I’ve created; I’d like my children to carry that legacy with them, no matter what industry they end up working in. It’s always good business to be kind.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have always been a lover of art. I went to college at the Academy of Art in San Francisco as an Illustration major, but quickly found that career was not one that would work for my ‘people person’ attitude. I had always loved photography, but it wasn’t until I was asked to photograph a friend’s wedding in 2006 that I truly fell head over heels for it. In 2010 I went full time so that I could also care for my then almost one year old. From there, things escalated quickly and before I knew it I had a studio in Uptown Marion and was thriving (Voted Best Wedding Photographer in Eastern Iowa) as a Wedding and Portrait Photographer.

I’ve since moved studios twice, landing where I am now in a beautiful 2000 square foot studio that we proudly own in the heart of Marion. I now specialize in High School Seniors, while still absolutely LOVING to photograph weddings, families, newborns, children and business content/editorial work. I think what sets me apart from other photographers is my training in fine art in that I have a deep knowledge of basic art and design elements, as well as storytelling. (Illustration is just that, after all!) I also think my desire to make my clients feel loved, to feel seen, and to feel free to be themselves is a big part of what I do and why my clients enjoy their experiences with me.

I am most proud of the heirlooms I’ve created for so many people. I’ve given people photos of loved ones they’ll never see again, and not just photos; authentic emotions and memories caught in time. I’ve created albums and artwork that folks will have to share with their kids and grandkids someday. Even after my clients are gone, the imagery we’ve created together will live on in their families for generations. The pride I feel in that is indescribable.

I’d like future/potential clients to know that I don’t just ‘take pictures’. I create an authentic experience that allows you to walk away, not only with beautiful imagery, but with memories from our time together that will bring you a sense of pride and joy.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

The most effective strategy for growing, in my opinion, ANY business is to always be kind and fair, and to create value for your clients so that THEY will grow your business for you. Word of mouth has BY FAR been the most successful strategy for growth in my business. This is done by simply creating an enjoyable experience for your clients, producing quality work, and always being a good human when no one is watching.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

I am friends on Facebook and Instagram with MANY of my clients. I love to watch their families grow and see what they’re up to. Because relationships are the foundation of my business, I truly AM interested in what they’re doing, and often continue relationships with them via social media after their sessions/weddings are done. This also serves as a reminder when it’s time for family photos again, as they see my name commenting on their photos or posts and will often times email us shortly after to book a shoot.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.monroe-co.com
• Instagram: @monroeco.photo and @monroe.seniors
• Facebook: @monroecophotos and @monroeseniors

Image Credits
Monroe+Co // Monroe Seniors