Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Snyder.
Jessica, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started photography shooting film and 2nd shooting for a wedding photographer, in Chicago Jai Girard. This was my first experience shooting weddings! I absolutely loved it!
I was sharing in their experience of getting married from getting ready to walk down the aisle. It was so much fun capturing the day. Then, after some time working with Jai, I decided to venture on my own to California to go to Brooks Institute of photography, there I learned everything about film photography.
Then as digital came along, I embraced it. Since then, been photographing weddings all over the world, from Bahamas, Jamaica And The Dominican Republic.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest struggle was in 2014 when I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer; this was the toughest time I have ever had medically. Fortunately, we caught it quickly, and I went through chemotherapy and radiation in about six mos.
During this time, I kept the situation private; I even worked at my other job at the time. I felt it was best to keep working and to focus on the job versus what I was going through.
The hardest part about getting Breast Cancer was that I had finally found the love of my life and he and I were trying to conceive. After the treatment, I was told that the chances were slim. I was also told by my doctor that I was going through menopause which was disconcerting.
I never gave up and prayed every day for this miracle to happen and decided to do a fertility cleanse by natural fertility shop and I did the cleanse and my hormones bounced back, and we also used the Ava bracelet to time it just right.
We were able to conceive a beautiful baby girl named Aria. She is the reason I work hard every day. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband, family, and friends that have supported me through my struggles and have always been there to encourage me.
Please tell us about Jess Lauren Photography.
As a wedding photographer and owner of Jess Lauren Photography, this allows me to set my schedule according to the needs of my clients. I love getting to know my couples from how they met to how they are walking down the aisle.
What sets me apart is that I get it, getting married can be a bit of a crazy day. I hope to make it not only meaningful with beautiful pictures but also to help keep my brides relaxed and calm on their special day.
On a personal note, I am actually self-conscious in front of a camera, so I get it if my clients are nervous and excited when they are getting photographed. I feel the same way, but I hope to make it a relaxing experience that leaves them smiling til the next day.
I am most proud of some of my publications, and I hope to have lots more! I have been so fortunate to be able to have been published in Grace Ormonde, Ceremony and Wedding Chicks! http://www.jesslauren.com/published-in-grace-ormonde-striking-beauty-at-the-mandarin-las-vegas/
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite memory which I can only recall from the pictures is when my parents took me to a bloom in the desert. I love those pictures so much!
Pricing:
- Wedding Packages start at 3500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jesslauren.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jesslaurenphoto
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jessicalaurenweddings
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jesslaurenphoto
Image Credit:
Jess Lauren Photography Www.jesslauren.com
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