Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Raymond Photography.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Growing up, I did not have dreams of becoming a photographer. In fact, I graduated college with a BA in Liberal Studies and began teaching shortly thereafter. It all changed when I had my first daughter. I did not want to miss a second of her childhood so I began documenting her every moment. I was so drawn to capturing her features; her tiny nose, her long eyelashes, everything I wanted to remember just as it was then. Within three years I was blessed with two more beautiful daughters and these three babies became my world. They also became my favorite subjects and I was obsessed with photographing everything about them. Capturing their childhood, as well as our families’ story through the years became my passion.
I have always loved art, but I never imagined becoming a photographer. As I began taking more and more pictures of my own babies, friends began to ask me to take their family portraits. My love of photography kept growing and I made a conscious decision to establish my own style, fine tuning my craft, and educate myself on the intricacies of photography. The more I learned, the stronger my passion grew and I knew I wanted to turn my passion into a career.
I established Jessica Raymond Photography in 2013 and I have been living a dream ever since. I can’t express in words how rewarding it has been to capture these amazing families documenting special moments in my clients’ lives.
Please tell us about your art.
Life is a story and I am a storyteller. Documenting moments of my clients’ lives so years from now those photos bring back these memories, which are filled with meaning. Images serve as captured moments in time providing clients the ability to go back in time and remember that touch, that moment when you were carrying your unborn child, those first few weeks of your babies life, each stage of your child’s life, and each chapter of your families life. I capture emotion and love with my camera; those warm intimate moments, genuine smiles, and true connections of my clients.
Creating an overall experience for my clients is of the upmost important to me. My goal is to pamper my clients from the first inquiry to long after I deliver a session. Often times I create a lasting relationship with my clients, which is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I also know how crazy life can be, especially as a new or expectant mom. Therefore, I have a client wardrobe with beautiful gowns, which include maternity gowns, so that moms can relax and enjoy their experience with as little stress as possible. I truly want my clients to have a chance to unwind in the studio and sit in admiration of their new precious baby.
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
San Diego is such an amazing city and has so much to offer for creative entrepreneurs and small businesses alike. There are so many local photography groups and workshops, and something I’ve found as a great resource to meet people in my local community who share similar interests. I love connecting with other photographers, appreciating their creative spirit, and building relationships with them to collaborate on new ideas. It is so refreshing receiving emails from other local photographers asking to meet up for coffee simply to discuss the business. San Diego has made connecting with other small business owners and artists easily obtainable, as there is a range of social networking in the area.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have been published in First Time Parents Magazine and Snap Model Magazine, as well as awarded the 2017 and 2018 Best Maternity Photographers in San Diego by Expertise. I have also been featured on many popular blogs.
Contact Info:
Image Credit:
Tarah Sweeney
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