For years I have been part of an amazing online group of photographers that inspire me on a daily basis. We love supporting each other, learning from one another…and dishing about just everything. #snitchesgetstiches. I am honored that one of my favorite Snohomish Newborn photographers Melissa Jenkins from June Bug Photography joined me today for my weekly photo crush interview!
My photog crush of the day is…
Name: Melissa Jenkins
Business Name: June Bug Photography
Specializes in: Newborn photography, cake smash photography, family photography, and maternity photography.
Check Junebug out here:
How long have you been in the photography business?
My love for photography started forever ago when I was in high school. I turned my bathroom into a darkroom and was obsessed with black and white film photography.
Then, I went to college, became a science teacher, and didn’t return to photography until my daughter was born. I started my business, June Bug Photography after taking personal photographs of my tiny one reignited my passion for photography.
Short Answer: I started my business 4 years ago.
What the most fun part of being a (newborn) photographer?
Besides the obvious perk of getting to snuggle babies all day… It warms my soul to see so many loving, caring, sweet families come in with their new bundle of joy. Not much compares to the excitement and love a mama and dad have for their newborn!
Are you brave enough to show your growth? A photo of one of your very first sessions, and your most recent session?
Oh man. This one makes me cringe a bit. Mostly because I don’t want my first clients to feel like their photos aren’t “good enough”. But, everyone starts somewhere, and this one was a free session. For a friend. Gah, this makes me feel really vulnerable…
Tell me something that would surprise most clients about the newborn photography industry?
All of the moms that come into my studio are blown away by my prop collection. I always joke about how they would be SHOCKED to know how many people make a living making props and accessories for newborn photography. I have some amazing go to vendors for my bonnets, layers, headbands, dresses, etc. Oh, and that anyone in their right mind would pay $50 for a knit hat. (Which I am HAPPY to do, because I love that they are handmade of quality materials!..That being said, I’d never spend that much on a hat for my OWN CHILDREN!)
Coffee vs Tea…vs Vodka?
Is the sun out? Yes: Coffee. No: Vodka.
Break down a typical day in the life of YOU. What does a typical day look like for you?
7:30am- Wake up. Make Coffee. Gently try to wake my kids for school.
8:20-8:40am- Mad frenzy to get lunches made, shoes found, backpacks on, homework done, teeth brushed, breakfast in bellies...and to the bus stop.
8:43am- Wave the kiddos on the bus and head to the studio.
9:00-10:00am- Prep the studio for session, pick sets and props. Realize I forgot to DRINK the coffee I made before leaving.
10:00am-1:00pm- Greet family, snuggle baby, work my baby soothing magic, get pooped on, typical newborn session.
1:00-2:30pm: Clean up studio, organize studio, head back home.
2:45-3:45pm: Immediately back-up images to my computer, external hard drive and cloud based storage. Start laundry (so much laundry from newborn sessions!) Eat something. Drink cold coffee from the morning.
3:45-7:30pm: Mom stuff, pick up kids from bus, homework, snacks, fight negotiation, bathtime, bedtime routine…
8:00-12:00am: Edit! Edit! Blog, marketing, emails, gallery uploads. Maybe some vodka.
What “gear” do you use? Do you shoot with natural light or studio lights?
I currently shoot with a Canon 6D, but plan to get the new Canon 5D mark iv next year...not that I need an upgrade, I just WAAANT IT!
Most studio sessions are shot with my canon 24-70mm or my 50mm 1.2. I love my 70-200 for outdoor sessions! I shoot in studio with natural light, so I am pretty light on gear. I do have studio lights that I use as needed, but I prefer using natural light when possible. When using studio lighting, I use my Einstein Strobe, and giant PLM which are amazing.
If you could travel back in time, and give yourself ONE piece of advice about your business, what would it be?
GIRL! This is not a hobby! You spend 40+ hours a week at this gig. Make sure you are compensated for it!
What are some of your favorite recent images?
This one is my favorite because not only did the AMAZING Melissa Shoot this, but my BFF Karen at Snug Sparrow Made the adorable Bee outfit!!
Love this lady to BITS and I can't believe the growth she has accomplished in just one year!! <3
