Hi Jess, Welcome to 121 Clicks. Please introduce yourself. Could you tell us where you’re from and how you got started in Photography?
I am located in Downingtown Pennsylvania and grew up in West Chester. I got started in photography back in 2005 while I was employed at Circuit City. I sold camera’s and fell in love right away.
Do you have any formal training in photography?
None. I am completely self taught. LOTS of trial and error along with tons of research.
You are a mother of two beautiful children, how will you manage work and family?
It can be hard, especially during wedding season, but I have learned that I have to take a break sometimes, and focus on my family. Luckily, I have a very supportive husband who helps so much with the kids. It took a while to find a workflow that worked for me, but once I got a hang of things and scheduled my time properly things got easier.
When you get an idea in your head for a photo, how do go about getting that shot?
I will get a basic idea for shoots depending on what I’m shooting (children, a couple, newborns). With newborns I will shop for props and backdrops. Otherwise, I try not to plan an “exact” shot ahead of time. My style is to capture moments as they happen, and for the posed images I go with the feel of the session.
Mostly you are working with people, what is the secret behind to get a good expression or pose from them?
The best thing you can do is help make them comfortable with you. Talk to them, get to know them, and allow them to be themselves. Understand that it can be pretty uncomfortable to be photographed for some people. I also try to get to know my clients before the session so a bit of a relationship is established. Children are usually comfortable with the camera as long as they are comfortable with you. Which for me means not being afraid to act silly and get on their level.
Before you start a shoot, how will you prepare yourself?
Get as much information on the client as possible (if a couple or family). Research locations. Choosing props if need be.
Can you please describe the process behind your photograph, which are Concept, Location, Capture and Post Processing?
I am always scouting out new locations. I feel this is one of the most important things for me since I offer on location photography. As far as capturing I look for the best light available and photograph my subject there. Again, talking to them and making sure they are comfortable. For post processing I do my basic color work in Lightroom (white balance, curves, etc.) and use photoshop for my edits even if its just a quick sharpen.
What type of camera and lenses do you use?
I shoot with a Canon 5d mark ii and use a Canon 20d as my backup. I have a variety of lenses including zoom, telephoto, and prime. My favorite lens is my 85mm 1.8
You are working mostly in Natural light. Can you please explain more about this?
I chose to work with natural light for many reasons. Main one being that I hate what artificial light does to skin tones and I do not like the restrictions on having only a small space to use in a studio. I love what you can achieve with natural light. You have to get creative at times, but I enjoy a challenge. I will however use a speedlite for wedding receptions.
List of your Favorite Photographers here and why you like their work?
Hoffer Photography – I love that every image of his looks different. The composition and lighting is perfect in every shot.
Alex Michéle Photography – Love the skin tones and use of natural light. Also love that she is/has been willing to help other photographers.
I realize that each photographer has love with particular subject such as Landscapes, Nature, Portraits, etc. Other than Wedding and Family Photography what would you like?
I would probably love nature photography. Particularly animals. I’ve been know to stalk my dogs with the camera.
If you were allowed to show the best five photos recently you shoot from Wedding / Portrait Session. What are your favorite five images?
Hmm…I’d probably share photos of a special 2 year old, Noah from his 2 year portrait session. Such personality!
What are your plans for the future? Do you have any new projects on the go at the moment, or anything that you’re planning to do?
I plan on having my own natural light studio for my newborn sessions.
What is the best compliment do you have ever? Could you please share Happiest Moment in your Photography Life?
My happiest moment in photography was when I got an email from my first ever client saying she loved the pictures of her son, saw my passion, and knew I would go far. She has referred countless clients and made the leap into owning my own business not so scary. Nothing more rewarding than LOVING what you do and having other people take notice.
Apart from photography, tell me about your hobbies and interests?
I am interested in graphic design. Otherwise, I love spending my limited spare time with my family.
Thanks again for providing 121 Clicks with this opportunity to interview you. Any final thoughts for our readers?
Thanks so much for reading! Best advice I can give is never think you’re too good to continue learning. No matter how much you know about photography there is always more. In my opinion your success ends the second you stop learning. Find your own style. You set yourself up for failure if you only imitate other peoples work.
You can find Jess on the Web :
Website : www.jessicakripp.com
Facebook : www.facebook.com/pages/Jessica-Kripp-Photography/126262940718839
Twitter : JKrippPhotos
