Almost 17 Years...


We started our business when that cool cat in the cover image above was almost 5 months old. And we started it because, it was 2008, the economy was insane, and Jay had just been a part of layoffs that were economy related at his job. With a new baby and all security flying out the window, we weren't sure what we were going to do.


I (Jess) had always dreamed of being a photographer. We loved the art of it and had dabbled in it. At the time, I felt it in my bones that we could make it a business. But with zero proof of that (we had zero business experience), we decide to irresponsibly purchase a camera and we dove in head first.


And God sure provided.


From May 2009 to January 2010, we did 150+ Lifestyle Sessions and booked our first wedding. We more than doubled our salary and we never looked back.


At the beginning of it all, I told Jay that I wanted to make enough money to pay our bills so I could be home with Cruz and any children to come in the future. And this business has provided that for us and so much more. Even in the recent years that we have slowed our business way down, we have seen God's hand provide again and again and again.


Miraculously sometimes, really.


That we would be able to have the ability to photograph so many people in such incredible and artistic ways, and to get paid for it for almost 17 years now is something neither of us ever saw coming. I was going to be happy if it provided rice and beans for us so I could be home. But God has far exceeded our expectations, as he normally does when you take a leap of faith and trust Him.


Ok I'm making a point. This is long, I know.


Cruz is almost 17 now. *audible gasp* WE KNOW GUYS IT'S INSANE.


But recently, he's taken an interest in becoming a photographer of his own! He has an eye for photography, he's driven by wanting to save up for a car, and he is inspired by wanting to work his own hours- we 100% understand.


So we've taken him on as an Intern Photographer with Jay & Jess! He's currently focusing on Lifestyle Sessions and Sports Photography with his school. But he's taking on all different kinds of projects to see what he'd like to focus on. Jay and I are training him and teaching him how to run a business, how to use social media, and how to chase the light.


Chasing the light is the difference between good and stellar photographers.


We are excited for him! He already has over half a dozen shoots under his belt and he is excited to book even more. We are so proud of him.


When I look at him though, I can't help but reflect on how what we started out to do is now potentially going to leave an even bigger legacy for him and his siblings. As he creates art, builds clientele and learns how to provide for a family, he has an opportunity to learn how to do all of that while creating art. I'm not sure where he will end up with all of this but what I can say is this:


When you have the faith of a mustard seed, God can and will do immeasurably more than you can ever think or imagine. When we started our business, it was FOR our kids. And today, almost 17 years later, it still is. And that make our hearts smile so big.


Check out Cruz's page on our website that showcases a little bit of his work. If you want to hire Cruz, his rates are discounted currently and either Jay or I will be on location with him.


Learn more about Cruz, HERE.