Conversations with Jen Williams

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Williams

Hi Jen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a passion for photography. As a child, I would sneak my mom’s disposable cameras and use up all the film, capturing everything from my family and friends to my mom’s garden. That early love for documenting life’s moments stayed with me.

In 2016, I decided to take photography from a beloved hobby to a career. My dear friend, Katy, saw my potential and took me under her wing, introducing me to the world of wedding photography. Working alongside her, I quickly realized how much I loved capturing love—the unique emotions and moments that make each wedding special.

By 2018, I began booking my own weddings, and I’ve cherished every second of it since. I’m passionate about capturing everything from the small, intimate details to the grand, unforgettable moments. Over the years, I’ve refined my techniques, mastered new settings, and become proficient in editing software to ensure every wedding gallery I deliver is the best it can be.

I truly love capturing love stories and what makes each one unique. Being a part of a couple’s special day and preserving those memories is what drives me every day. It’s still insane to me that someday the couples I have photographed will show their grandchildren photos I took of their wedding!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey hasn’t always been smooth, but it’s those challenges that have shaped me into the photographer I am today. Balancing multiple responsibilities—working full-time as a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education, and running my photography business—has been one of the biggest hurdles. Time management became crucial, and it took a lot of trial and error to find a rhythm that allowed me to excel in all areas.

Starting out, I faced the usual struggles of turning a passion into a business—learning the ropes of running a business, marketing myself, using social media effectively, and managing the financial aspects. It was a steep learning curve, especially balancing the creative side of photography with the practical demands of entrepreneurship.

Finding my unique style and voice in a saturated market was another challenge. Early on, I often questioned whether I was good enough or if I could stand out among so many talented photographers. But with time, I realized that what sets me apart is my genuine love for capturing the unique love stories of my clients, and my expertise in capturing details, candid photos and making my clients feel comfortable in front of the camera! Once I embraced that, things started to fall into place.

Managing the emotional and physical demands of wedding photography while juggling my career and studies was tough. Weddings can high-stress, fast-paced events, and it took time to build the confidence and stamina needed to navigate them smoothly. But with every wedding, I gained more experience, and now I can handle even the most unexpected moments with ease.

Through all the ups and downs, the support of my friends, my family and the joy of seeing my clients’ reactions to their photos have kept me going. Each challenge has been an opportunity to grow, and I’m grateful for the journey that has brought me to where I am today.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m the founder and head photographer at Jen Marie Imagery, where I specialize in capturing love stories—whether it’s through weddings, engagements, or intimate couple sessions. My passion lies in documenting the unique connection between people, preserving those moments that might otherwise slip away.

What sets me apart is my approach to storytelling through photography. I believe that no two love stories are the same, and I strive to capture the individuality of each couple I work with. I take the time to get to know my clients, to understand their personalities, their quirks, and what makes their relationship special. This allows me to create images that are not just beautiful, but also deeply personal and meaningful.

I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me to capture one of the most important days of their lives. It’s an incredible honor to be a part of these moments, and I never take that responsibility lightly. I’m also proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients—many of whom I’ve had the privilege of working with multiple times as their lives continue to evolve.

In addition to my photography, I also work full-time as a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA) and am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education. This background in behavior analysis gives me a unique perspective and a deep understanding of human connection, which I bring into my photography.

What truly sets me apart is my commitment to making every session fun, relaxed, and authentic. I want my clients to feel comfortable in front of the camera, so I bring a mix of lightheartedness and professionalism to every shoot. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, offering a bit of guidance, or capturing candid moments, my goal is to create a comfortable environment where my clients can be themselves.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 crisis was a challenging time, but it also taught me some invaluable lessons—both professionally and personally. One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of flexibility and adaptability. Like many others, I had to quickly adjust to the changing landscape of my work. Weddings were postponed or downsized, and I had to find creative ways to continue doing what I love while keeping my clients safe.

This experience taught me the importance of being open to new ideas and finding innovative solutions in the face of uncertainty. It also reinforced the significance of communication. I learned how crucial it is to stay connected with my clients, keeping them informed and reassured during such an unpredictable time. This not only helped maintain trust but also strengthened my relationships with them.

On a personal level, the crisis reminded me to cherish the small moments and the connections we have with others. It was a time of reflection, and I realized how much I value the work I do in capturing memories that people can hold onto during difficult times. The pandemic underscored the importance of what I do—preserving moments of love, joy, and connection that can be looked back on, even when the world feels uncertain.

Overall, the COVID-19 crisis taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of being present in every moment. These lessons have not only made me a better photographer but also a more empathetic and understanding person.

Pricing:

• Wedding Packages range from $1800-$2500
• Elopement Packages start at $1500
• Engagement Sessions: $250
• Lifestyle Sessions: $250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jenmarieimagery.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenmarieimagery/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenmarieimagery.mi/