Jessica Shepard Photography » maternity

Behind the photographer

Jessica — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:35:38 +0000

In an earlier post I said that who I am is very much a part of my business. This got me to thinking that maybe I should share a little bit more of me with my readers, and clients. I think ten years ago, people wanted to know that the photographer they were hiring would take excellent photos, and that’s it. I may be wrong since I have not been in this business ten years but it seems to me that our culture has shifted a bit, and one of the main reasons we go to a small business is the person behind it.

A while back, after a haircut, I told my hubby that I needed to find a new hair stylist. He looked a bit confused since I seemed happy enough with the haircut. I explained that I did not enjoy the experience. The cut could be the best ever but if sitting in the chair and chatting with my stylist is not enjoyable then I am not happy. It’s not just about the product, but the experience, and the relationship.

I want my clients to be excited about their photos and have enjoyed all their interactions with me. I get to be a part of very intimate and cherished moments so a connection is important. I think a little personal series of posts is a good way to give clients and potential ones a way to get to know me. Check back soon for the start of my Behind the Photographer series, with a personal post each week.

I’ll start with a personal photo. This was taken along a coastal trail in Yachats, Oregon, just a few minutes walk away from Overleaf Lodge, an incredible hotel.

Not just a belly {Portland Maternity Photography}

Jessica — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 16:14:36 +0000

I think close to 90% of my business these days is weddings, but portraits are such fun too. I especially love maternity sessions. While I take a few that are belly shots, I approach maternity photos not very different than engagement photography, or family portraits. To me, it’s a chance to document and celebrate your family as is, whether it being just the two of you, or you already have one or two children. It’s the last couple of weeks before a major change in life.

When I was pregnant everyone kept telling me to take some hubby time. Go out to eat. Go to the movies. Look into each others eyes while you stay up late drinking hot chocolate in front of the fire. Of course, I am guessing many first time moms-to-be would agree, I was too excited and anxious to really take the advice to heart and enjoy the quiet moments.

Around 35 weeks I got put on modified bed rest, which pretty much means I was supposed to sit on the couch and watch tv, or read a book. I did watch way too much HGTV, and read piles of pregnancy / birthing books. However, I really just wanted to get up and do things, and found the rest very difficult to take. Now with a 21 month old little girl, and a business, I can’t imagine the opportunity to sit on the couch for even a couple of hours!!!

I imagine it’s all very different when you are having your second, like Carrie and Stephen. In their photos, I try to capture who they are as a current family with their toddler Evan.

The first photo, a belly without a face, is one of the exceptions. The artist in me loves it but the feminist in me strongly objects, since it is cold and stark. Of course, back in art school, I would have said that any image that can conjure up enough feeling to make me feel conflicted, and think about it, is good.

Maternity Photography

Jessica — Tue, 19 May 2009 03:56:48 +0000

Amanda and Mark are just a few weeks away from having their first, a baby boy. They had me over for a maternity session to document this special time in their lives. The couple raises five chickens and two cats, who were all a part of our photo session.

Amanda & Mark – I’ll let you know when your web gallery is ready. Best wishes for a happy birth!

Portrait Special {Two free 8×10 prints}

Jessica — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 19:17:37 +0000

I am starting to get a lot of inquiries for spring portrait sessions. As an incentive to book early, I am including two 8×10 prints (a $40 value) with any portrait session booked in March. These sessions can take place later in the year, and can be for any type of portrait (maternity, baby, family, seniors, or engagement).

Take a look at my portfolio and email me to schedule a session.