Get to know Jessica Wakefield (Capital District - Williamsburg, VA)
What type of photography do you specialize in, and how did you choose that niche? I am really working on specializing in Portraits, specifically of women, teens, and tweens. However, I do sports, events, and other types of photography as needed. I chose that because I want to make a difference with my photography and give back to the world. I believe that the power that a beautiful portrait has to build and raise self-esteem as well as confidence, is something people don't really think about. We all deserve to feel good about ourselves, but it's so hard sometimes to look past the negative. As I say on my website, I encourage people to "See yourself the way your loved ones see you".
What's one thing you've learned in your photography journey that you wish you had known earlier? How much business knowledge is needed. When I started, I thought I just needed to be good at the photography part, but I quickly learned that it's about all things business more than anything. If you don't know business (and marketing, customer service, retouching, etc.), your business will be much harder and less successful.
What has been the most valuable part of your VPPA membership? I have really enjoyed meeting so many talented people. Everyone has been really friendly and helpful. I love the community feel of the group and how people seem to be about collaborating, not competing.
What inspires your work creatively? Life in general. Specifically, the places I have been, the people I meet, and the experiences I have had, both good and bad. I have led a pretty adventurous life so far, and I think it opens up my mind to new things, new ideas, and new ways to look at the world. I am so thankful for all the stuff I've done and am looking forward to the things I still need to experience.
What's something people might be surprised to learn about you? I grew up in the country. I am from Vermont and grew up milking goats, playing in the swamp, and climbing trees. When I was 13, I beat a bunch of farm boys at a cow milking contest. I won a laundry bag with an illustration of a cow on it. I still use it to this day.
When you're not photographing, what do you enjoy doing? I love to travel and go on road trips. I also read every night before I go to bed. It helps me forget about the million things I need to do that are running through my brain. I grew up in a house with no TV, so reading is something I've been doing since I was little.
If you could photograph anyone or anything, what would it be and why? Probably Lucille Ball. She is my hero, and I think she's beautiful, hilarious, and so very talented. (I have every single episode of I Love Lucy on DVD. Plus, I love the look of old Hollywood photography. It touches my soul.
What's a professional goal or creative project you're currently working toward? I am currently working toward getting my Master of Photography and Craftsman Degree from PPA. I am also working towards getting my degrees through VPPA.