Today we’d like to introduce you to Meredith Jinks.
Hi Meredith, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I began my professional career as an educator and coach. I am a certified teacher and principal in the state of Texas and have coached at every level from middle school to college, but working with high school kids was definitely my sweet spot!
Since 2013, I have been blessed to stay home raising our three kids. After my last child was born, I was given my first camera. I was still raising my kids while learning as much as I could about my Canon T6i Rebel. I took photography classes and spent all of my free time trying to conquer it all. I volunteered for another photographer, soaking up all I could about the profession. After two years of my so-called apprenticeship, I officially started my photography career. In January of 2019, I opened my business in Los Angeles, California, where there is a photographer on every corner. It was highly competitive, motivating me even more to grow as a professional photographer. There was so much talent and I was inspired to keep making progress and honing my craft. I bought my first professional camera and lenses and took photos of everything I could. I never turned down a photoshoot. I gained experience with newborn photography, children, families, and high school seniors. I learned from every shoot, and as I gained experience, my skills with my camera and with editing continued to grow.
Once my kids were in school during the day, I had time to reflect on the many things I loved about my career as an educator and coach: I love being around kids. As an athlete myself in high school and college, I also missed being a part of a team. Now I am fortunate to be able to incorporate all that I enjoy into my career. I have created a senior model program for high schoolers with a mission and a purpose for contributing to the community that I live in now, Sienna, in Missouri City, Texas
I love photography. I love the challenge it brings. I love the creativity it allows me. I delight in capturing personalities and making each photoshoot personal and fun! And lastly, I am always a student of the craft. I love learning and I take every opportunity to get better.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would love to say it has been smooth, but it wasn’t. If we go back to childhood, I knew I was going to have to pay for my college. I had two brothers close to my age with one parent providing support. So, I worked really hard and earned a basketball scholarship. Once I was in college, I really didn’t know what I wanted to do. I had been so focused on getting there, I hadn’t had time to think about what I really wanted to do professionally, So, naturally, I just decided to stick with what I knew, school and sports. I taught and coached for many years before deciding to stay home to take care of my kids. I loved being around kids, but I didn’t like the monotony of teaching the same lesson six times a day as a teacher in the classroom. Staying home gave me the freedom to explore my passions. I still love sports, But, that was when I fell in love with photography.
We’ve been impressed with Three10 Studios, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I started my business in Los Angeles, California. Initially, I followed suit with many other photographers and named it after myself. My business was known as Meredith Elaine Photography. Once I moved to Texas, I changed the name to Three10 Studios. Three10 reflects the area code where I started my business. I wanted to incorporate this into my business because Los Angeles was a huge part of my growth as a photographer. I took just about every portrait job I could. I loved it all, but was the happiest when I was photographing high school seniors. A substantial influence is likely the time I spent in education.
As a former teacher, coach, and mom, I know that every kid is completely unique. I will spend the time getting to know each senior so that I can bring out their very best in the shoot. I take time getting to know each client, putting them at ease, and drawing out their best so they naturally feel confident and self-assured. I have vetted some of the best locations and providers in the area, and can give you a referral, or even handle the booking as part of one of my packages. I ultimately customize a photo shoot that highlights the unique personality and character of each senior.
One feature of my business is a senior model program for high schoolers with a mission and a purpose for contributing to the community. This model team will volunteer to serve our community.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory would be going to my grandparents’ house in Jacksonville, TX. We called it Paradise Hill. There were ponds to fish and swim in. And, there were horses to ride. We stayed outside all day long just playing. It was my paradise. My interest in horses definitely began there!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.three10studios.com
- Instagram: three10.studios
- Facebook: @three10.studios
