We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Taylor Jonas. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Taylor below.
Alright, Taylor thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?
I was 8 years old. I had taken a few photos on an old camera and entered them in the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. Little me was not expecting much when she walked up to the display. But after looking through all the photos trying to find mine, I realized it had a grand champion overall ribbon attached to the corner. I squealed with excitement. I didn’t know what to do, but I knew I wanted to do this again!
Over a course of 10 years, I was highly involved in the 4-H program. Even traveling nationally for some leadership trips. I competed and entered multiple contents, but photography always had a special place in my heart. It was a project that I always wanted to advance in. Even though it was a favorite project, I still would have never thought that It would be my career choice.
Flash forward to 2022. My husband and I had just gotten married and we had our baby. I wanted to stay at home with him. I was pursuing social media management and loved it. I had a friend ask me to take some newborn photos of her little one and I happily said yes. I dusted off my camera and have not let go of it since. I fell in love with photography all over again, and knew this was what I wanted to do. A few weeks later “Momma Hen Snapshots” was born. I started out by taking some free photos of my friends and got my first paid client in May of 2022. I now focus on families, couples, and western fashion inspired portraits. I love what I do. I have seen myself grow into a person that I love, I meet new people every week, and have learned so many lessons. I am just getting started on this amazing journey!
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
I am a photographer, but I am also a mom, wife, daughter, and sister. I am very family oriented and this definitely came into play when planning my business. I have a passion for western and couple photography, but I will never stop doing families because that is what got me started.
I don’t like boring photos, I am gonna be honest when I say if you want a photographer for some old fashioned stand and smile photos – i’m not your gal. BUT If you’re down for a story telling, adventure filled, memory based photoshoot, I am here for you! When I take your photos, I am not just taking photos for you to post on instagram. I am capturing genuine smiles, the details of how you hold hands, moms and dads in awe as they swing their kids around. I want you to look back in 20 years and know that you had an amazing experience at that photoshoot. I am not a photographer to just take photos, I am a photographer because I love working with people!
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
I think being different is the best thing you can do! I often catch myself admiring other photographers work and wishing I could be as good as them. I had to learn NOT to do that. It is okay to admire another photographer, but NEVER compare yourself (this goes for everybody, not just photographers). I am constantly on top of ideas on how to be creative and when I want to do something, I just do it. I don’t worry about others judgement or what if its not popular. I have fun with my business and I think that helps me stand out!
I am me! I am the best version of myself, I edit photos how I like them, and I am still working hard daily. As long as I keep working hard I am doing my best and that is all that matters!
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I believe this relates back to the previous question. Be yourself! Post what makes you happy, post in local groups, use hashtags that relate to what your posting and your business. CONNECT, CONNECT, CONNECT! I LOVE connecting with other local photographers. I have a few ideas in the future to connect with more and keep building those business connections!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://snapshotsbymommahen.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: @mommahensnapshots
- Facebook: Momma Hen Snapshots
Image Credits
Momma Hen Snapshots