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

Jina, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?

One of the most profound moments of showing appreciation to a customer occurred during a photo session with a client who had lost her 11 year old son. She was understandably struggling with grief, and the thought of smiling for pictures felt impossible for her.

I knew that this session was not just about photography but about offering support and understanding during a deeply challenging time. With her consent, I captured moments of her raw emotions and the love she had for her son, allowing her to express her grief in front of the camera.

The resulting images were a poignant reflection of her strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming loss. I presented her with a carefully curated set of photographs, each one highlighting her inner beauty, the depth of her love, and the courage she exhibited during the shoot.

When I shared the photos with her, she told me that she had never expected to feel beautiful in the midst of her grief and the photos became a tribute to her son, a symbol of her enduring love, and a source of comfort during her healing process.

My ability to capture her authentic emotions and make her feel beautiful during such a challenging time left a lasting impact on her. It wasn’t just about photography; it was about supporting her through her journey and giving her a sense of empowerment and solace.

The customer felt not only appreciated but deeply understood, and our connection extended far beyond a typical client-photographer relationship. It was a testament to the transformative power of photography in helping people heal, cope, and find beauty in the most difficult moments of their lives.

Jina, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey began with a strong foundation in photography, having attended Ringling College of Art and Design. This provided me with a solid artistic background that would later serve as the cornerstone of my career.

After college, I assisted established photographers in my area, worked in a corporate studio, and eventually opened my own studio/gallery. This hands-on experience allowed me to gain practical knowledge, learn the ropes of the industry, and develop a deep appreciation for the art of photography. I witnessed firsthand the importance of capturing moments, emotions, and memories that become timeless treasures for families and individuals.

What sets me apart is my ability to create a warm, comfortable environment for my clients. Many families come to me with apprehensions about being in front of the camera, and I take pride in making them feel relaxed and confident, which allows their true personalities to shine through.

I’m most proud of the genuine connections I’ve formed with my clients over the years. It’s a privilege to be part of their lives, from documenting their love to capturing their children’s milestones. My work is not just about photos; it’s about celebrating life and love.

Can you share your view on NFTs? (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)

NFTs have provided a new platform for artists like myself to showcase and sell their work in a decentralized and secure manner. It’s a fantastic way to bridge the gap between the physical and digital art worlds, allowing artists to receive recognition and compensation for their digital creations.

In my personal work as an NFT artist with Superrare, I’ve found it to be an incredibly empowering and innovative way to share my art with a global audience. It’s a space where creativity and technology intersect, and I’m excited to be a part of this digital revolution. The community is super supportive. I’ve been apart of digital gallery shows, and discovered many photographers whose work I love and never would have seen before.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Working as a creative often means wearing multiple hats. You’re not just the artist but also the business manager, marketer, accountant, and more. The behind-the-scenes tasks can be overwhelming, from managing finances and client relationships to marketing your work and handling administrative duties. Balancing the creative process with the business side of things can be a challenge.

The creative journey is not a linear path; it’s often filled with uncertainties and financial fluctuations. So, what non-creatives may not fully understand is that being a creative professional is not just about the art itself. It’s about resilience, adaptability, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment. It’s a journey that requires a unique blend of creativity and business, and finding that balance can be a real art in itself.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emberandearthphotography.com