We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jodie Schrier. Check out our conversation below.
Jodie , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
It’s completely normal for people to feel a bit surprised when they first see the financial investment involved in hiring a professional photographer. I felt the same way—until I stepped behind the camera and started my own photography business.
What many don’t see is the tremendous amount of time, care, and energy that goes into every session—before, during, and after the shoot. Hours are devoted to communication, planning, editing, equipment upkeep, administrative tasks, insurance, licensing, and professional tools that ensure the highest quality results.
All of these factors add up, and for a small business, pricing has to reflect both sustainability and value. Most importantly, though, my pricing represents the experience I aim to provide—one that’s not a “fast food” transaction, but a personalized, luxury experience tailored to you.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Jodie — photographer, choreographer, dance instructor, and self-proclaimed chaos manager (because let’s be honest, every creative needs one!).
Each of these roles feeds my heart in a different way. They give me an outlet for creativity while letting me bring a little joy and beauty into the lives of others. I’ve spent over 50 years in the dance world—performing on countless stages and teaching students of all ages. Somewhere along the way, I picked up a camera and discovered another passion: capturing the artistry and emotion that unfolds in a single, fleeting moment.
Whether it’s on stage or through a portrait, I’m endlessly inspired by the power of expression without a single word spoken.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
Without a doubt, my greatest inspiration comes from my husband and our two children. Each of them has an incredible drive and an unwavering work ethic that never ceases to amaze me. Watching how they’ve faced adversity, setbacks, or everyday challenges has been truly eye-opening.
I’ve never seen them give in to defeat—or even consider quitting. Instead, they approach each obstacle as an opportunity to learn and grow. They pivot with grace, adapt with strength, and always find a way to turn challenges into something positive. The results aren’t always what they expected, but their resilience and outlook consistently lead them toward something even better.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
For many years, I carried a sense of disappointment over not having a college degree. I knew I was capable and blessed with steady, well-paying jobs, but I often felt I’d fallen short of that “corner office” dream or the prestige of a big title. I used to believe that meant I hadn’t quite measured up.
But with time — and a lot of prayer and reflection — I came to see things differently. God had a unique path for me, one that didn’t require a diploma to fulfill His purpose. The gifts He gave me couldn’t have been learned in a classroom: humility, faithfulness, compassion, and the heart to serve others.
He shaped me to be a loving wife, mother, and grandmother; a passionate teacher and choreographer; an encourager who lifts others up; and a helper who shares freely from the knowledge and experiences He’s entrusted to me. Looking back, I can see that His plan was never about titles — it was about testimony.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would all tell you that faith and family are the cornerstones of my life—without question. I was blessed to grow up in a family that nurtured devotion, loyalty, and unconditional love, even when distance separated us.
My faith deepened through the guidance of a loving dance teacher who took me under her wing and gently showed me what it truly means to have a personal relationship with Christ. It was a transformative experience that shaped not only my values but my heart.
Faith and family are treasures I hold sacred, and they are the pillars I will always cherish, honor, and protect—no matter the cost.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I eventually reach heaven, I hope to be remembered for the joy and positivity I tried to carry each day. I hope people recall that I truly saw them, truly listened, and genuinely cared about their stories. That I approached life with patience, kindness, and a love for others that was evident in both the little moments and the big ones.
I hope they remember the gentle way I shared my faith, the prayers I offered quietly for those in need, and the way I celebrated others’ victories—no matter how small or grand—with wholehearted cheer from the sidelines. More than anything, I hope they remember a life lived with love, compassion, and a heart devoted to lifting others up.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jodielanephotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodielanephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JodieLanePhotography
Image Credits
Photo Cred: Jodie Lane Photography
