Interview with Jennifer Nace

Jennifer Nace is a very talented photographer that I stumbled upon somewhere on Facebook. I love looking at her work and her passion is extremely evident in what she does. Take some time to check out her work at www.jennifernace.com or on her Facebook!

1. Your work is primarily newborns and children – what made you interested in that type of photography?

I think after struggling with infertility for years I realized what a MIRACLE these little beings are. They are just so perfect and innocent. I love being able to capture that.

2. What was your biggest struggle when you first started your business and how did you overcome it?

I (like so many) started out unexpectedly. I didn’t have a business plan. I didn’t know how to price myself so I could actually make a profit. Luckily I had some more seasoned photographers who knocked some sense into me. It wasn’t long until I realized I was working for less than minimum wage so I figured out what I needed to make per hour to actually bring home a paycheck.

3. How would you describe your editing style?

I think I have editing ADDOne week I am on a hazy action kick—the next I’m very clean and simple. LOL. Seriously though. I spend a good amount of time editing my favorite images and then I batch the rest. I realized I was spending wayyy too much time editing images that never got ordered. I let my clients know that I’ll make sure anything they print will be absolutely perfect.

4. What’s your story? How did you end up doing photography?

Like I mentioned, I started out unexpectedly. I had a nice camera so I could take pictures of my own kids. Soon my friend started asking for pictures, and then THEIR friends started asking. It just snowballed.

5. Tell us about one of your most memorable and favorite photography moments.

Gosh there are so many special moments but I think some of the ones that touch me the most are being a part of all of the most important moments of a clients life—from their wedding, to the birth of their babies. It’s SO neat. I also just love being able to volunteer my time to do sessions for kids who battling cancer. I can tell you from experience that those images are priceless.

6. What advice would you give to a new photographer looking to start their business?

Remember this is a BUSINESS. If you want to succeed in this crazy industry you need to be a good business person as well as a good photographer. Make sure to set yourself apart.

7. What’s your favorite type of photography to do and why?

Newborns. They grow SO fast. I think most parents say it’s hard to remember those first weeks. I love being able to capture that time so they can look back on it forever.

8. Who or what inspires you?

Color inspires me. I love coming up with new ideas or combos for set ups. I also love looking at other photographers work who I admire—it gets my creative juices flowing. Kelley Ryden and Tracy Raver are 2 of my favorite newborn photographers.

9. Some of your newborn photos are outdoors! Is it difficult to take the baby outside and get photos done like you would in your studio?

I have only done it a few times. I live in Minnesota so 9 months out of the year the weather isn’t super warm. During June-August it’s great but the bugs are horrible. Honestly it’s a real pain. I love the way it looks but it has to be a really sleepy baby so I can work very quickly.

10. And finally, for fun, if you could have any super power what would it be?

Magic editing powers. I want to snap my fingers and have allllllll of my editing done