Jenni Lauren shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Jenni, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’ve been really getting back into reading, and have built a small community around it. It’s a nice escape from the realities of work and life while still building a social community of like-minded folks.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jenni, and I’m a photographer based in the Carolinas. I focus primarily on elopements and micro weddings with a specialty in fantasy photography. Working with fantasy is such a beautiful expression of individual personality and creativity and it’s such a joy to create art with other artists. I also decided to specialize in elopements because I love how intimate and personal it feels. I love getting to witness those private, unrushed moments. I recently moved so I’m slowly rebuilding my business, which has been a challenge!
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
As cliche as it sounds, definitely my mom. My mom worked herself ragged to get to where she was (she’s now semi-retired). She started from bottom with no formal education, at a fast food restaurant and worked her way up to running/managing seven restaurants. She’s the epitome of hard work leading to success.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Oh yes! The first company that hired me as a wedding photographer very promptly let me go after my first wedding with them. They told me I wasn’t good enough. I cried for about 8 solid hours. And then I thought to myself, I can either quit now or I can figure out a way to make myself better. So, I reached out to one of Charleston’s best photographers and asked her for help. She took me on, mentored me and eventually hired me on as an associate. It was probably the best thing to ever happen to me because I learned more, worked more high-end weddings, and had more opportunities to meet other vendors with her than I would have had otherwise.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The photography industry (wedding photography specifically) has turned into a photoshoot spectacle. People will tell you you HAVE to do certain things for the photo and the reality is, being in the moment is so much more important. In the same respect, weddings often lack personality because we are taught to “keep up with the Joneses.” Weddings “have” to have big floral displays, a big, white dress, extravagant food, and a live band. But infusing your unique likes, hobbies, and tastes into your wedding will make it so much more meaningful and memorable.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Having stuff is meaningless. People spend so much money and energy to have the best things (cars, bags, clothes, shoes, even cameras and equipment). Stuff doesn’t make a good business or a quality life. Having a fancy camera doesn’t make someone a good photographer. I would much rather spend my money on an experience than a tangible thing that will go out of style or break down eventually.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jennilaurenphotography.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/@jennilauren_photography
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/@jennilaurenphoto
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jennilauren_photography
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