We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jodie Schrier. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jodie below.
Jodie, thank you so much for making time for us today. We can’t wait to dive into your story and the lessons you’ve learned along the way, but maybe we can start with something foundational to your success. How have you gone about developing your ability to communicate effectively?
I strongly feel that growing up as an introvert, shy young girl (with little self esteem I might add) – taught me how impactful words can be. As I got older and had opportunities to be a ‘voice’ in front of an audience, my confidence grew. However I can honestly say that being an observer had the biggest impact. I’d watch/listen to others that were in authority and immediately felt either inspired or completely turned-off. My own communication skills grew from that and I always wanted to be someone that took genuine interest in others. Additionally, whatever I had to offer, my objective was to help others feel at ease, confident and cared for. Having various industry roles in health care, theatre, and education gave me the opportunity to speak to audiences ranging from 5 yrs old to 85+ in ages. It was vital that I had effective communication skills if I wanted to have any impact.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My background for the past 50 years has been in Dance/Theatre which has transformed into a meaningful photography business that I enjoy so much!
Performing Arts will forever have a place in my heart. To this day I teach dance and choreograph musicals for both high school theatres as well as community theatres. To mold a Cast from start to finish is extremely rewarding, especially because I get to work alongside incredibly talented people.
I have always been a “hobby” photographer for many years but only recently (5 yrs ago) turned it into a business. It came about in the most unusual manner…..during the pandemic. As the world watched this tragedy effect countless lives, I wanted desperately to use whatever God-given talent I had to bring joy back to others…..in particular the elderly. A crazy idea came to mind to pair elderly adults with a classic car of their choice and do a photoshoot. The thought process was to, hopefully, bring back some nostalgia and great memories; whereby providing a ‘safe space’ for them to share their life stories……simply by being in the presence of a classic car from an era long gone. And it worked. Far better than I could have imagined. The feedback I received from their relatives was beyond uplifting! That was the goal, and then word got out and I found myself getting hired to do senior portraits, family portraits, engagements, etc. I took a chance and formed my own small business!
Today I have the honor of capturing countless moments for families; each with their own heart-warming story. And…..as fate would have it, I now also photograph dancers and theatrical productions!
In 2025 I wanted to do several different projects and “test drive” their success. They worked!, and now we are launching a series of themes which include underwater portraits, Kindergarten Graduation portraits, “The Notebook” inspired portraits, and the “Fabulous Over 40” series!!! It has been a blast putting these together and it allows me the chance to use lots of creativity rather than sticking to one genre. All of these can be found on my website: https://jodielanephotography.com/
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I would say that my experience in building projects from the ground up (entreprenur spirit) in non-profit sector, medical, and also theatre.
Also my thirst for knowledge and always paying close attention to others further in their careers that I admired.
Finally my ability to collaborate effectively and identifying reputable mentors!
My advice for those starting out – do your research first! But also put yourself out there; get to know your community; volunteer; join groups that align with your passion; find a good mentor!!!! Dont expect the experience to just develop, do the work. Dont expect the clients to just appear – make the initiative to be where they are and meet a need……even if its at no-charge initially.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My parents laid the ground work very early; FAMILY comes first. We grew up with grandparents, aunts/uncles and cousins all around us but the door was always open to friends and neighbors too. Learning to support each other, no matter our differences, and being able to come together as often as we did shaped how I view the importance of community. There is alot to be said when you know that you’ve got a ‘team’ behind you – cheering you on but also keeping you accountable and grounded.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jodielanephotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodielanephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JodieLanePhotography
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Jodie Lane Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
