Photographer Spotlight: Jeanna Hayes
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
What’s in your camera bag & what’s your favorite lens?
I shoot with a Canon R6, and my favorite lens is my Canon 85mm 1.2.
What’s your favorite thing to do when you aren’t working?
Besides spending time with my family (which is my greatest joy!), I actually really love running (but only when listening to “Queen” ridiculously loud), gardening and canning what we grow, and if I have extra time which is never, … I love drawing and painting!
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by any master of their craft whether it is a photographer, painter, author (they “paint” with words!), chef, musician, dancer, etc. Talent and hard work inspire me. However, my favorite photographer is Kirsty Mitchell. Anytime I need an infusion of creativity, I look at her work for an instant dose of inspiration. Her book is one of my favorite possessions! I have also loved Elizabeth Messina since the moment I first saw her beautiful work over 15 years ago.
What makes your brand unique?
I bring science and psychology into my photographic approach. I learned how the human eye works, and the things we are drawn to at a fundamental level; visually and psychologically. In my work I implement those things, as well as the visual rules I learned in my college art major. Most importantly, I want to bring warm feelings, love, light, and a little bit of magic (!) into people’s lives through my work.
What’s your favorite aspect of your business?
I love the craft of photography, through and through. I make sure to price myself profitably (that time away from my family is precious!), however, there is such a joy that comes from adoring what you do when you work in a creative field. The feeling you get when you create something you really love and are proud of, all the while blessing the lives of your clients, is everything. It’s sacred.
What business advice would you give to someone overwhelmed with starting out?
Two things:
1. Learn the basics of both art AND business (you are wearing both of those hats as a professional photographer!), and then build from there. Learning to be good at your craft and smart at business are the two most important things you can do. I’ve seen frustration come when the pendulum swings too far off balance; if you focus too much on your portfolio at the expense of your business, and vice-versa. Make sure they work hand-in-hand.
2. Niche, niche, niche! I began my photography career being all things to all people. I was the epitome of “If you speak to everyone; you speak to no one.” The minute I embraced what I personally love and am drawn to, my photos and brand looked more attractive, I booked more, and most importantly, I was SO much happier as an artist! It was a HUGE win/win/win (Michael Scott, anyone?), and I wished I had done it from the get-go.
What’s your Starbucks drink?
Call me crazy… I’ve never been there! I’m not a coffee drinker. However, I’m a sucker for “Rain Berry” Gatorade…. does that count?
Where can we find your work?
Website: www.jeannahayes.com | www.jeannahayeseducation.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeannahayesphoto
