We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jamenda Whitehead a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jamenda, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
It’s funny imposter syndrome is a feeling that ebbs and flows for me. Most of the time I feel confident about my work, grateful for the experiences I’ve had, and know that I am putting out quality work. But every now and then there’s a little voice that says ” am I good enough, am I qualified to do this work?”
And when I hear that voice I know it’s time to lean into remembering who I am, what I’ve accomplished, and surround myself with others who pour into me and encourage me to keep going.
So I wouldn’t say I’ve overcome imposter syndrome, but I’ve become more aware of the little voice that wants to sneak in and question my abilities. And I can now better manage how I respond and push forward boldly rather than shrink into doubting my abilities and how far I’ve come.
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 am the owner and lead photographer for JAM&CO Studios, a wedding and portrait photography and videography company based out of Atlanta Georgia. While based out of Atlanta we do travel, and have serviced clients in Ohio, New Jersey, Detroit, Savannah, GA, North Carolina, and Cabo.
Planning a wedding is very much like planning for the Grammy’s something most people have not done. So while I am hired to capture amazing visuals for my clients, I am also there along their wedding planning journey to provide insight and transparency into what their day will feel like, as well as encouraging them to make it their own, and find ways to get the most out of their day and timeline.
Wedding photography and videography are the bulk of our services but we also offer portrait photography, event photography, and corporate photo and video services.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I would say the first would be to know your numbers. In the early years I would agree to do sessions or projects without really understanding the cost involved. Now as a full time entrepreneur, if we’re taking on a new project, I have to do the leg work to really understand how much it will cost to deliver the project, as well as what the profit looks like so I can ensure I’m taking care of those working with me.
Secondly, I would say to have systems in place that make it easier for current and potential clients to find you, communicate, and book your services. The experience is everything when onboarding new clients, and I’ve learned that it should be easy. I’ve invested in several different platforms to ensure a seamless client experience.
Lastly, I would say learn to be the face for your business. I’ve found that others support my brand because they believe in me, the work I produce, and the journey that I’ve been on. No one will talk about your brand or business if you don’t. So I’m very big on talking about JAM&CO Studios wherever I go, showing up on social media, and networking with others in and outside of the industry because you never know where those connections could take you.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
I have an amazing mentor, Oona Breyer of the Dragonfly Photography, she has been an absolute God send, helping me navigate the industry and see my business from a different lens. We randomly connected via instagram and met in person about 5 years ago.
As a veteran in the wedding photography field, she’s taken me under her wing doing image reviews, allowing me to capture weddings alongside her, and just being a listening ear when I need additional insight on my business.
Having her as a part of my circle has exponentially accelerated my work, and my business acumen. If possible, I highly advise everyone who is new to their field to find a mentor, someone who sees potential in you and wants to see you win.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jamcostudios.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamco.studios/
- Facebook: JAM&CO Studios
- Youtube: JAM&CO Studios
Image Credits
JAM&CO Studios
