May 8, 2017

Meet Jennifer Vera of Jennifer Vera Photography in Richmond

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Vera.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I got started into photography when I first learned I was pregnant with multiples. At the time, I was working full time as a Registered Nurse and had plans of pursuing my Master’s in nursing in the near future. But it wasn’t until I gave birth to my twin girls that my whole perspective on life changed. The demands of being a first time mom to not just one but TWO twin girls made me rethink my career path…and the thoughts of having a more flexible working schedule to spend time with my family became my top priority.

Reflecting back to when I was pregnant, I recall randomly watching YouTube videos on how to use a DSLR camera during my spare time. And before I knew it, I had purchased my first camera: the Canon Rebel XS to be exact. Starting with a Canon just felt right from the very beginning and without hesitation, the brand itself has never left my fingertips.

My journey from being an inexperienced to now a full-fledged photographer has definitely evolved over the past 3 years. Although there are days when I don’t feel like I’m at my best, I am reminded of how it all began. From capturing small moments of just family and friends to my first gig as a solo wedding photographer, I know that this career choice has been the most rewarding decision I could have ever made for myself and for my family…
There is just something so edifying about capturing someone’s special day. I even find myself getting caught up in the moment, teary-eyed…but thank goodness for auto-focus!

It’s true what they say, “If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” And to me, I’m honored to be doing just that 🙂

Has it been a smooth road?
There is so much that goes into starting your own photography business other than just taking nice pictures. I encountered tons of struggles along the way when first getting started. I soon realized in order to be a successful business owner you need to wear several hats. You’re not only are the photographer, but your also the book keeper, marketing director, branding person, social media expert, website creator, CEO, and customer relations expert. Great photography skills are extremely important, don’t get me wrong. But you have to have a lot of other ones if you plan on running a successful business. While I always stay true to my style, it evolves to match the couple and the wedding I am photographing. After photographing many weddings over the years I have learned that each couple is unique and I adapt to their specific needs and expectations.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Jennifer Vera Photography story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a local Houston photographer that specializes in weddings. What sets me apart from others in the industry is the high importance I place on building great relationships with couples whose weddings I take on. I am a strong believer that beautiful pictures start with great relationships.

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Over the next 5 years I want my business to grow by taking on more destination weddings. I would love to capture beautiful scenic backgrounds for my couples on their special day.

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