We were lucky to catch up with Jen Oceana recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jen, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
As a wedding photographer, this is key to not only creating amazing wedding photos but is how you avoid burnout. Being creative is what keeps me inspired and excited about my career. But, if not constantly worked on, it can be easy to follow into rigidity. The first way I stay creative is to use Pinterest and Instagram. Find other photographers’ work that inspires me to get creative with different styles and poses. Photos that motivate me to never stop improving my work and reinventing myself. Second, hiring models to do photo shoots with. The reason I enjoy doing this on occasion is that it’s a low-pressure way to get creative with my work. Try new things, and use my flash in different ways. Because I paid for the models, it’s okay if I try something new I don’t love it! The overall theme of both of these points is to experiment and try new things! Connect with other creatives whose work inspires you, and draw inspiration from that.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Jen of Jen Oceana Photography. I’m based in New Jersey and specialize in wedding photography with a timeless style and candid approach. Photography has always been my passion, and I feel fortunate that my hobby evolved into a thriving business.
Initially, my photography journey encompassed a variety of subjects—families, headshots, and products. However, everything changed when I captured my first couple. Instantly, I fell in love with wedding photography and knew this was my niche.
I have had the privilege of photographing hundreds of weddings, yet the magic of each celebration never fades. From the heartfelt vows to the first dance and the party at the reception, I thrive on capturing these special moments authentically and beautifully.
Every wedding deserves to be documented in a way that reflects the couple’s true essence. I am not your typical wedding photographer; I bring a spirit of fun, high energy, and a commitment to forging genuine connections with my clients. Working with incredible couples in breathtaking locations on the most significant day of their lives is a true joy, and I am grateful every day for the opportunity to do what I love. I’m currently booking weddings for the 2025 season!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In school, the only thing they focus on is academics. How well educationally does a student perform? But what is often completely overlooked is someone’s ability to socialize. Being able to confidently socialize in a work setting is one of the most important characteristics a person can develop in any career. Being someone people enjoy chatting with and feel comfortable around is the most underrated skill. If socializing is somewhere you struggle, start putting yourself in social settings! The only way to get better is to practice. Luckily for me if this were a subject in school, I would have aced it. Because networking with other people and creatives will no doubt help you build your business!
Second, along the same lines as this is social awareness and intuition. Being able to read the energy of a room on a wedding day and know how to approach things. Knowing when to let moments happen and when to jump in.
Lastly, being a photographer, its technical skills. Lighting, composition, posing, editing. There are tons of books and youtube videos you can watch to learn more. But just like the first tip I listed you eventually have to go out there and practice all you learned! I started by taking self portraits in my bedroom. I eventually began photographing friends, then family friends, and so on.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
The Go-Giver. Written by Bob Burg and John D. Mann. This book is amazing and a very easy read. The authors discuss the power of generosity and giving. The book goes over the “Five Laws of Stratospheric Success.” The overarching theme here is giving and generosity. For me the book made me want to give more to couples than I receive financially. To over serve and create an even better experience than I already am. And to not view others as competition or gate keep anything. Energetically, it is a much more holistic approach to running my business.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jenoceana.com
- Instagram: @jenoceanaphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenoceanaphotography
Image Credits
Jen Oceana Photography
