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

Jordan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about how you got your first non-friend, non-family client. Paint the picture for us so we can feel the same excitement you felt on that day.

Having my first camera I really had to learn more than the technology aspect of what I needed to capture the photograph. I had to learn those mechanics of course, like ISO, white balance, lens, different types of light, etc, but I had to also learn how to capture people. Not only that capture multiple people together. My first clients were family members with kids. And I am totally a dad and kid person so it became inherently clear to me that portraiture was going to be my “go to” in the future. I loved capturing the fun between families and the smiles, laughs, goofy moments that really cement families to their core values. Capturing memories and moments like that are what really make me happy because it last forever.

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

Personal I always loved photography! Playing with cameras as a kid and owning my very first Sony Cybershot growing up it was a passion from the very beginning. Taking it further than just capturing the photos I looked into how I could actual make more with those photos by editing them in programs. Creating art from the very photographs I took. I knew to scale this business I had to be very consistent with my creative style as most photographers out there I know and love were doing similar things in their craft. I wanted to do the same thing. Never was there a day I didn’t take a picture and make it into something artistic or creative. Even photographing my dogs and items I had around the house. Shooting all the time made me more adept to the craft and most types of styles of photography. And I am a people person so capturing emotions with my camera really directed my path.

I’m really striving to be a great “lifestyle” photographer because it’s enhances my skills to think better on my feet and sometimes those are the best moment as those are the ones that are truly “one of a kind”. They usually come out beautifully and they help me in so many aspects of what I love to capture. From the weddings and engagement sessions with couples to businesses with events or activities and even Headahots it’s always the emotional moments that come out best.

I really aim to make everyone comfortable in front of the lens. For some reason it’s super scary for people to have this glaring lens setup staring you right in the face so I always do my absolute best to make people feel comfortable and calm in front of the camera. Even if it requires me to make a total goofball of myself to get that smile. I always say when you hire me you get a friend for life because it’s always a fun experience.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Being able to be quick on your feet as a photographer has always been a staple for me. I had to learn this quick with capturing kids and weddings, but I didn’t really realize this in the same as a business sense. The pandemic really hit hard for a lot of businesses and as for mine I had to learn how to adapt as well. I started to realize that what people actually wanted versus what they actually were getting during that time had to be adjusted. So I started offering smaller packages for businesses and weddings and during bundling for Headahots for companies to save money. I cater to the needs of the customers at the end of the day and make sure to flexible with schedules.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Yes, “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki was impactful for photography, but I highly recommend it for any business. Here’s a couple of examples from the book I learned.

1. The importance of financial education: Kiyosaki emphasizes the significance of financial literacy and acquiring knowledge about money, investing, and business. I apply this principle to photography by continually learning and improving my financial understanding. Educate myself on topics such as pricing, budgeting, marketing, and investment opportunities specific to the photography industry.

2. Building assets and generating passive income: The book encourages readers to focus on building assets that generate income rather than solely relying on active income from a job.
In photography, I give people the option now to buy prints and create albums for their photos.

3. Understanding the difference between assets and liabilities: Kiyosaki highlights the importance of distinguishing between assets and liabilities. Assets generate income, while liabilities drain your resources. In the context of your photography business, consider your equipment and investments as assets that contribute to your ability to generate income.
Make informed decisions about purchasing equipment and minimize unnecessary expenses that don’t directly contribute to your business growth.

Finally, Leveraging other people’s time and expertise: The book emphasizes the value of leveraging the skills and knowledge of others. If you apply this concept to your photography business by identifying areas where you can outsource or delegate certain tasks. For instance, you might hire an assistant for photo editing, accounting, or marketing, allowing you to focus on your core strengths and client interactions. Find a network and work on your people skills. Find likeminded people and mentors and accept their criticism and advice. A supportive network will carrying to light years ahead of others because main people forget relationships are everything in any business.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://jdphoto.onuniverse.com
• Instagram: Jdgensler
• Facebook: Jordan Gensler
• Yelp: JD photography

Image Credits
Myself