We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jada Johannes. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jada below.
Jada, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Navigating as the sole wedding photographer in a small town, where diversity might be limited, has required a blend of self-assurance and adaptability. Believing in my unique perspective and skills has been pivotal, enabling me to stand out and provide exceptional service. Understanding the diverse cultural backgrounds of my clients has also proven crucial, allowing me to forge genuine connections and capture moments that authentically reflect their identities and love stories. Seeking allies and mentors within the industry has provided invaluable support, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. These relationships have offered guidance and encouragement, equipping me to navigate challenges with greater confidence.
Speaking up and advocating for diversity within the wedding industry has been integral to my journey. By sharing my experiences and emphasizing the importance of representation in photography, I’ve contributed to a more inclusive narrative. Embracing my uniqueness as a wedding photographer has been liberating, allowing me to connect with clients on a deeper level and capture their stories with authenticity. Through resilience and a dedication to celebrating love in all its forms, I continue to thrive as a wedding photographer in a small town, making a meaningful impact one snapshot at a time.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As a wedding photographer based in a small town, my passion lies in capturing the unique love stories of couples on their special day. What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to create timeless and authentic images that reflect the personalities and emotions of each couple. Every wedding presents a new and exciting challenge, from finding the perfect angles to capturing fleeting moments of joy, laughter, and romance.
What sets my brand apart is my commitment to diversity and inclusivity. I believe that every love story is beautiful and deserves to be celebrated, regardless of race, gender, or background. Through my lens, I strive to capture the essence of love in all its forms, creating images that resonate with authenticity and empathy.
In terms of new developments, I am thrilled to announce that I’ll be expanding my services to include destination weddings. This exciting venture will allow me to explore new locations and cultures while continuing to capture love stories in my signature style. Additionally, I’ll be launching a series of workshops aimed at aspiring wedding photographers, where I’ll share my insights and techniques for capturing stunning and meaningful images.
Overall, I am dedicated to providing couples with a photography experience that is both memorable and heartfelt. With a focus on diversity, authenticity, and excellence, I look forward to continuing to document love stories and create lasting memories for years to come.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Creativity and Artistry: Developing a keen eye for composition, lighting, and storytelling has been crucial in capturing memorable and emotive images. Experimenting with different techniques, studying the work of renowned photographers, and constantly seeking inspiration from various sources have helped me refine my creative vision. For those early in their journey, I recommend immersing themselves in the world of photography, exploring different genres, and pushing the boundaries of their creativity. Practice regularly, embrace experimentation, and never stop learning from both successes and failures.
Interpersonal Skills and Emotional Intelligence: Building strong relationships with clients and understanding their needs and emotions are essential for creating authentic and meaningful photographs. Effective communication, empathy, and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds have been invaluable in my journey. Early-stage photographers can enhance their interpersonal skills by practicing active listening, asking thoughtful questions, and genuinely engaging with their clients. Additionally, seeking feedback and learning to adapt to different personalities and situations will help cultivate emotional intelligence and deepen client relationships.
Business and Marketing Acumen: Understanding the business side of photography, including pricing, contracts, marketing, and client management, is essential for success in the industry. Developing business acumen involves learning about industry trends, identifying target markets, and implementing effective marketing strategies to attract clients. Investing time in building a strong brand identity, creating a professional portfolio, and networking within the industry can significantly impact one’s career trajectory. For beginners, I recommend seeking mentorship from experienced photographers, attending workshops or courses on business and marketing, and staying informed about the latest developments in the photography market.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth and improvement has been refining my marketing strategies and expanding my online presence. I’ve dedicated significant time and effort to enhancing my brand identity and visibility across various digital platforms. By leveraging social media channels effectively, optimizing my website for search engines, and engaging with potential clients through targeted content, I’ve seen a substantial increase in inquiries and bookings.
Moreover, I’m thrilled to announce the publication of my first book. This project has allowed me to share my insights, experiences, and expertise with photographers and everyday adventurers, providing them with practical tips and inspiration on the best location in Minnesota. The process of writing this book has not only solidified my knowledge and skills but also opened up new opportunities for collaboration and mentorship.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue building upon this momentum and further establish myself as a leading wedding photographer. With bookings now extending as far out as 2025, I’m grateful for the trust and confidence that clients have placed in me to document their special day. This long-term commitment reflects the quality of my work and the relationships I’ve cultivated with couples who value authentic and emotive storytelling through photography.
As I embark on this next chapter of my journey, I remain dedicated to continuous growth, innovation, and delivering unparalleled service to my clients. Whether through capturing timeless moments behind the lens or sharing my knowledge through writing and mentorship, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact in the world of wedding photography.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.midwestmoments.com/
- Instagram: MidwestMomentsLLC
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jadajohannes.photography/
Image Credits
Kat & Trevor Aleisha & Caleb Brandie Cierra + Evan Jenny + Thomas
