Conversations with Jenny Jolley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenny Jolley.

Hi Jenny, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In July 2017, I got engaged and dove headfirst into wedding planning. I loved planning every small detail and surfing Pinterest boards for hours. I have always had a passion for photography, so two of my loves collided when I looked into wedding photography for my own wedding. In December 2017, I started my own photography business and then in March 2018, I shadowed a wedding photographer… let me tell you, I was sold!

I found myself photographing all the details that I love so much, taking in all the happy emotions from the day, and genuinely feeling on top of the world when I left at the end of the day. Ever since then, I have primarily focused on photographing weddings. Today, I provide couples an experience that’s personal and professional at the same time. I use my expertise from many weddings to give couples peace of mind, my chatty and goofy personality to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera, and a bright and editorial photography style that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh man, owning a business has not been easy! In the beginning, I was a human sponge, taking in every piece of advice I would receive from more experienced photographers. It took me a while to start separating what truly helpful information was and what was just a stylistic tip. The beautiful thing about photography, or art in general, is there really are no rules, just guidelines. Last year (2020) was a year of self-reflection and rebuilding my way of thinking about photography in many ways. It’s been quite the process, but it’s been so worth it!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a wedding photographer that serves the Kansas City area! You’ll find me in my element when photographing weddings. I am so proud of finding my own voice in the photography community instead of fitting a certain mold – I worked really hard to find it! I’ve always been told I have great people skills. I could start a conversation with a broomstick. Okay, maybe not an inanimate object, but I love meeting people and making people laugh! I love not only making every couple I work with feel comfortable and enjoy my time with them, but I also love getting to know friends and family at every wedding I’m at, which I know is a unique experience!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Being a professional is hard work and becoming one is a difficult process, so when reaching out to someone about mentorship, think about how you can provide for them instead of only focusing on what they can provide for you. For instance, if you want to get into the wedding industry as a photographer, consider offering a hand at moving gear for the day without a camera. Sure, you may not get some portfolio shots yet, but the experience is so beneficial and can be a springboard to other opportunities. Understand there are people who would not like to mentor others and that’s okay and not personal. For networking, the same applies. Think about how you can provide for a vendor/professional and versus what they can do for you. Having a community over competition mindset goes a long way.

Pricing:

• $1,600 for 7 hour wedding coverage
• $2,000 for 9 hour wedding coverage with two photographers
• Elopement packages beginning at $600

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: jennyjolleyphotography.com
• Instagram: @jennyjolleyphotography
• Facebook: facebook.com/jennyjolleyphotography
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnc0v27IBCxHRD3h6myWW_g