Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Ash.
Hi Jessica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, thanks for having me! My name is Jessica and I’m a retail assistant manager and portrait photographer in Davis County, Utah. I’m 31 years old, I was born in Germany (Dad was military), I have three siblings and we’ve resided in Utah for most of my life. I love a good cup of coffee, a solid workout, reading, writing, listening to music or podcasts, etc.
I’m a multi-faceted person which has both enhanced my artistic nature, but hindered my ability to bring certain things to completion. I’m sure many of you can relate, haha!
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been both. I think the starting process i.e., registering your business, purchasing a domain, opening business bank accounts and marketing yourself are the simplicities. The hard part is learning HOW to acquire paying customers (if your goal is stability and income). The hard part is continuing to learn and realize you’re not the top dog.
Feeling small when you’re not taken seriously- which isn’t usually meant to be hurtful- is hard. You’ve to prove yourself through work and consistency. It will suck sometimes and that’s the nature of the game. I believe if you truly love what you’re doing that passion will override some of those moments. Being an artist in whatever facet is beautiful and when you choose to make that art an income– now you’re in for a ride. I’m excited to see where it goes! I’ll always do it regardless of business success.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Let me start by saying we take pictures for a multitude of reasons. There is something about being able to look at an image and say, “damn! That’s a beautiful photo,” whether it’s emotionally driven, a headshot, a sailboat on the coast or steaming coming off a cup that the light hit just right. Telling stories and capturing moments is what magnifies and gives meaning to our lives.
Many in this industry say to niche down and I agree with that to an extent. There are certain types of shoots I don’t typically do because it may not be what I want to be known for. However, if you ask me, I will always do it.
I shoot portraits, couples, boudoirs and documentary-style street photography. When you’re artistically eclectic it’s hard to pick just one thing. I’ve always prided myself in making people feel good, providing a good experience and bringing emotions to the surface.
What are your plans for the future?
No written-in-stone plans as of yet. I’ve mulled over an occupation change, maybe moving out of state temporarily just to experience something new while continuing to learn and build the business. Sometimes, we get lost in the mundane because we’re oblivious while we’re hustling. Hard work is a necessary component to anything and though it gives you some grit–it can also deprive you of time you won’t get back. I feel it’s time for me to grow not only as an artist, but personally as well.
I’ve reached a point where I’d like more financial stability, to maybe meet someone (romantically), have a family, travel a bit and experience more of my life whilst continuing to work hard and create.
Pricing:
- Portrait Sessions: $250
- Boudoir Sessions: $275
- Couples Sessions: $250
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @jessicajunephoto
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-ash-3a69402bb/
Image Credits
Jessica Ash, Megan Vigansky, Aubriel Rodarte, Rayse Pulver, Isaac Kenner, Emilie Jordao, Jordan Rhal, Emily Brooks, Mirian Perez, Renae Sowders, and Rex Youngberg
