Meet Jaymi Schout of Zeeland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaymi Schout.

Hi Jaymi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I picked up a camera when I was just 14, not knowing it would lead me to where I am today. What started as a hobby quickly became a deep love for documenting the fleeting moments and memories we hold so dear. A few close friends let me photograph them—trusting me long before I fully trusted myself—and word began to spread. Little by little, my dream took root. By the time I graduated high school, I was stepping into photography full-time. And now, I have the honor of telling love stories across Michigan and beyond.

It feels surreal that this is my work—and I’m still loving every minute of it!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have certainly been seasons of doubt, comparison, and questioning whether I was truly cut out for this. I started young, with no formal business training—just a whole lot of heart and a willingness to learn through trial and error. Every challenge stretched me, shaped me, and ultimately helped my business grow in ways I never could’ve planned on my own. I’m so grateful for the journey this business has taken me on, and for every person who believed in me, encouraged me, and walked alongside me through it all!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a wedding and elopement photographer based in West Michigan, specializing in documentary-style storytelling that captures real emotion, meaningful moments, and the beauty of what’s true and unposed. My work is deeply rooted in faith, empathy, and the belief that love stories deserve to be remembered with reverence.

What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me—not just to take beautiful photos, but to be fully present in some of the most sacred, emotion-filled moments of their lives. I’m often told that I brought a calming presence, that I made the experience feel natural, and that I felt more like a trusted friend than a vendor. To me, that’s what photography is really about. It’s not about posing and curating, it’s about witnessing. It’s about holding space for the quiet, honest moments that tell the deeper story and documenting those moments with intention and care.

What’s next?
Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep growing both my business and the kind of life I’ve always dreamed of—one that’s creative, intentional, and rooted in faith and family. I’m continuing to refine my client experience and deepen the storytelling side of my work, and I hope to take on more elopements and destination weddings that feel deeply aligned with my heart and purpose.

I’ve always dreamed of building a life that makes space for both creativity and home—so I’m planning and preparing for a future that allows me to serve my clients well while also prioritizing faith, family, and slow, meaningful living.

Pricing:

• Weddings begin at $4,800
• Sessions begin at $600

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jaymijoyphoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaymijoyphoto/