What better way to introduce one of our newest members than getting to know the face behind the company? Let’s all give the warmest welcome to Stephanie Jenkins, owner of Stephanie Jenkins Photo! Keep reading to meet the photographer who is just as in love with all the little details as you are!

If you care to share, how did you get to where you are now?
Go ahead and grab your coffee and pull up a seat. Well, it all started back when I was 18 months old and got my first camera. I’ve always been passionate about photography, and when I hit a bump in the road with my Dental Hygiene schooling, I took some time off to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. In 2010, I decided to reach out to a few local Richmond wedding photographers to see if any of them needed assistance. Turns out, one of them did, and we ended up starting a photography business together. That direct line of mentorship was crucial in developing my skills as a photographer and eventually led to me branching out on my own. And here I am today! 12 years of experience under my belt and hundreds of weddings photographed. All of those little experiences shaped me into the business owner that I am today. But even more than that, I’m thankful that most of my clients call me “friend.” I mean, after all, they are entrusting me with one of the most important days of their lives! And that’s not something I take lightly. But I digress…if you’re looking for a Photographer that will not only capture your wedding day perfectly but also make you laugh, then look no further! I’m your girl. 😉

What makes you or your business stand out and why should a couple hire you?
I think what makes me and my business stand out the most is my dedication to my couples. I’m there for them every step of the way, from the initial consultation all the way through to the delivery of their wedding photos. I want them to have the best experience possible and to walk away from their wedding day feeling excited about their images and cared for every step of the way. Plus, I have a way of making couples feel comfortable, moving, and laughing during their photos, which is always a bonus!

What’s your favorite thing about working in the wedding industry?
My favorite thing about working in the wedding industry is that I get to be a part of one of the most important days in a couple’s life. It’s an honor to be able to capture their love story and preserve those memories for them. Plus, I get to eat a lot of cake! But seriously, I love being able to work with couples and get to know them on a personal level. I’m not just a vendor that they hired, I’m a friend that is there to help them through one of the most amazing (but also stressful) days of their lives.

What’s a unique tip you tell your couples?
Make the most out of your wedding planning process by tying experiences to some of it. If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, book an experience like bowling or a hike and a picnic for your engagement session. This will not only add some fun to your photos, but it will also help relieve some of the stress that comes with wedding planning. And don’t forget to take advantage of your makeup and hair trial by booking it on the same day as your engagement photos. This way, you can make a date night out of it too!

Lia Everette Photography

What’s your best piece of advice for couples planning a wedding?
My best advice for a couple planning their wedding is to hire a day of coordinator. A lot of your day’s success will come from having an intentionally designed timeline and not having to handle everything on your own. You want to be present and enjoy your day, not worrying about the small details. At the end of the day, no wedding is 100% perfect. Being flexible and going with the flow is always the best way to go. The most important thing is that you’re married to the love of your life at the end of it all!

What’s your favorite moment during a wedding?
I always love the little moments during a wedding that might go unnoticed but add so much to the overall story. Like the flower girl who’s stumbling down the aisle but making everyone laugh. Or the way the bride and groom look at each other right before they say “I do.” These are the moments that my couples will treasure long after their wedding day is over. The “in between.”

What are your favorite wedding trends right now?
Ah, this is a fun one! The table game during the reception! One of the challenges my couples have had is getting all their guests in photos, while also having time to sit and enjoy their meals and take a breather. The table game fixes it all! Have the DJ play a song of your choice. During that time the couple will run to each table and get a quick photo with everyone. They have until the end of the song to get to every table. My couples end up with shots with all their guests AND they get some downtime. It’s a WIN WIN!

What are your top three favorite movies (or books)?
Hmm, this is a tough one. I tend to lean towards more personal development-type books like “The Compound Effect” by Darren Hardy and “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. Right now, I’m currently reading “How are you Really” by Jenna Kutcher.

What’s a fun or unusual fact about you?
Music is my first love. I grew up singing and playing guitar and landing on a handful of stages all over the world. I don’t play as often as I’d like, but I definitely need to make some space for it.

What’s the coolest thing you’re working on now?
I’m so grateful to be able to do what I love – wedding photography. It’s been such a rewarding experience, both creatively and financially. I want to help others achieve the same level of success, so I’ve created a Wedding Photography Mentoring Program. This program will teach you everything you need to know about starting your own photography business. If you’re passionate about photography and want to turn your passion into a successful career, this program is for you.

Do you love to travel? If so, what are some must-see destinations?
I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot for my photography business, and it’s something I’m really grateful for. I’ve been able to shoot portraits and events in some amazing places all over the world, from Iceland to Costa Rica, Mexico and London. I’ve just booked a wedding in Jamaica for next Fall, which I’m really excited about. There’s something about being in a new place with a completely different vibe that gets those creative juices flowing. On a personal note, Arizona has my heart! Give me all the canyons and stunning views!

What is your most used emoji?
Probably the crying laughing Emoji. Okay yeah, I just checked. That’s correct, haha! 😂

What is your favorite season of the year and why?
My favorite season is Fall! I love all of the fun and cozy activities that the cooler weather has to offer. The day trips up to Carter Mountain, picking out your favorite pumpkins and drinking apple cider. Okay, is it Fall yet?

 

Start capturing your big moments on camera now!

Email: StephanieJenkinsPhoto@gmail.com

Website: https://StephanieJenkinsPhoto.com

Instagram: @stephaniejenkinsphoto