- Julie
Everything You Need to Know About Me
When I sat down to write today I started singing ‘let me introduce myself’ to the tune of DJ Kool’s song “Let Me Clear My Throat”. Clearly I’m a child of the 90s. Much to the shame of my oldest brother I’m sure! Then, of course, I had to spend too much time searching for the actual lyrics and singing along. In the process, I scared my dog and he moved to another room.
That’s quite an introduction, isn’t it?
Let me start again...I’m Julie. A photographer, copywriter, wife, mommy, and self-proclaimed creative. I believe that the beauty of small business are the people that sit behind them. They are real people, entrepreneurs, with a story. With the start of a new year, I wanted to step back and introduce myself again. Tell a bit of my story.
My Photography Journey
I wish I could tell you that I’ve always had a passion for photography. Or, that I had studied photography in college. Sadly, none of that is true. I did, however, study dance from the age of 10 or so through college. Artistic expression and appreciation for the body were ingrained in me. I learned that the body’s movement can give the audience a great deal of emotion. That strong angles, for example, are not flattering and make people feel nervous or angry.
For a long time, I thought I wanted to be a modern ballet dancer and join the Alvin Ailey dance theatre. There was also a brief point in time that I wanted to head to New York and be a Rockette. Sadly, I was too short to even try out. So I did what seemed the responsible choice and went to business school. Ultimately getting a job in corporate America. Bonus, dance was a wonderful stress reliever while I tried to figure out what I was going to be when I grew up.
I tried for a couple of years to maintain my dancing while working But, I let it slip to the wayside. Something I regret! I lost my way of silent personal expression. My way to move and be free. But, setting dance aside also put me on a journey to discover new art forms. Not long after I had my daughter the idea of portrait photography seeped in. I borrowed a camera, read the entire manual, and took a class. I’d like to say the rest is history, but that wouldn’t be the truth.
I started clicking. A lot! I took some really awful, poorly composed photos for quite some time. I tried photos of food, and plants, and beautiful sunsets. All awful! So I figured I’d just take pictures of my kiddos and enjoy having a camera not just my phone. That’s when it clicked...pun intended. Photographing people triggered the memories of body angle and emotion. About movement and expression. From there, the rest is (almost) history.
Work and Photography Balance
I decided in 2015 that I wanted more out of photography. More than just a snap here or there of my kiddos. I started teaching myself to use editing software, started reading photography blogs, and set-up a business. I became an entrepreneur.
I set lofty goals and offered free photo sessions to anyone I talked to. I wanted to practice. I wanted to spread the word. I completed nearly 25 free sessions before I felt like maybe, just maybe, I was a legitimate photographer.
I fit photography into my corporate and mommy schedule. Doing shoots on weekends and evenings. But, it was always a side hustle. I always felt like I couldn’t give it all the love and attention I really wanted. Learn more about my photography journey during my 52-week photo challenge.
Family
It wouldn’t be an introduction if I didn’t mention my family. We’re a crazy bunch. Loud, loving, and emotional. My poor hubby! My family are the ones who gave me the push to make photography more than just a passion project. They are often at the center of my images. Sometimes much to their dismay. And, no matter my photography goals, they are encouraging and kind.
What’s Next
Good question! Can someone tell me? I think like a lot of people, I’m literally feeling my way through the dark. Each day is a new adventure. Exciting. But new!
At the end of last year, I decided it was time to move on from corporate America. Time to set my heart and my course in a new direction. Yes, my passion and drive for photography played a major part in that decision. I wanted to have more time to focus on this passion, expand my skills, and grow my business.
You likely think that’s where this very long-winded story ends. Nope! I couldn’t resist the urge to start another creative opportunity when I launched out on my own. So, while nurturing and growing J Bryant Photography I launched J Bryant Agency a medical, health and wellness copywriting business. Why not have two small businesses!?! Today, I’m fully entrenched in planing, growing and cultivating from two different businesses. I might be crazy!
So, when I’m not shooting or editing I’m writing. That’s of course when I’m not walking the dog, cooking a meal, or chasing after my two kiddos. There is no such thing as balance in life. So instead, I’m following my passions – photography, writing, kiddos, dogs, my hubby, and more! I invite you to follow along on my crazy journey. Follow J Bryant Photography on Facebook and Instagram @jbryantphotos or me personally @juliebschill. Even better, help support small businesses. Get to know the stories of the entrepreneurs behind them. I’m currently booking maternity, newborn, and family sessions for 2020 and can’t wait to have even more families become a part of my story. And, most importantly, capture a small moment in their story.
I bet you are still singing that DJ Kool song!
Here we go now, here we go now…
I hope ya’ don’t mind, let me clear my throat.
