I first met Janae at a birthday party event for one of my favorite event planners in San Francisco, Michelle of MB Wedding Designs. The room was noisy, crowded and - if I recall correctly - a little stuffy to breathe in.
I remember sitting and chatting with Janae and I felt like I was talking to much because she was such a good listener. And that the sort of person Janae proved herself to be; more concerned about others than herself and I think that perspective goes a long way in wedding photography.
Let's take a look at Janae Shields Photography!
1) Describe your style in four words or less.
Fun, fresh, intimate and artistic. To me having fun is one of the most important elements I bring to my relationship with my clients. Long gone are the days of stuffy, boring wedding photography. I want couples to enjoy their day and the photography portion of it. Keeping my images fresh and new is something I’m working on constantly. I’m continually trying new things with lighting, posing or compositions so as to always keep it fresh. The intimacy and relationship between the couple can be the most rewarding part of a wedding day to photograph. Their love for one another is why everyone is gathered that day and to capture that for them is one of my main goals. Capturing images through my own artistic eye is one way I set myself apart from others in my industry.
2) Looking back at the 2008 season, what would you say was different or unique about '08 when compared to the previous years?
The 2008 season was my favorite one so far! Having only been full time in this business for 3 years I finally felt I came into my own this year. It was the first year I felt comfortable in all elements of my business from the photography portion to the administration side of things. It was an extremely rewarding year!
3) How would you describe the difference between your work and the work of other photographers in your area?
My photography combines elements of playfulness along with a softer side to allow all elements to be captured. My passion and energetic personality don’t allow me to stop until I have the perfect shot!
4) What was the most satisfying moment/incident that you experienced as a professional wedding photographer?
Wow, this is a hard one because I’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing people and have been lucky enough to have numerous satisfying moments. I’ve always had a hard time with these sorts of questions, as I’m more of a top five or ten kind of gal instead of a single most kind of gal.
5) If you didn't enjoy photography so much, what would you do instead?
Again this is a hard one because I’ve loved photography since I was little, having received my first camera when I was in grade school. I’ve followed this path since then and have never thought of doing something else. I guess if I weren’t doing wedding photography I would be doing architectural photography.
6) Brides have their reasons for selecting the photographer that they feel is right for them. What would you consider a "good" reason for them to select you?
The two best reasons for brides to select me would be that they feel a connection with my images as well as me personally. I feel those two elements are the most important reasons to hire your wedding photographer. If the style of work is something a bride is drawn to then she’ll envision her own wedding in that style.
7) From whom have you found the most support for your endeavors?
My husband, Parry, has been - by far - my largest supporter. When we had first moved to the Bay Area I was working at a photo lab as a printer. Due to circumstances the company had a round of layoffs and I was among them. I had been second shooting on weddings as well as doing a few here and there on my own at that point but had been unable to make the leap to full time. I realized I had been given this opportunity to start my business instead of finding another job that I wouldn’t be happy at. Parry supported me 100% even though it was going to be a tough transition year. This is just one of many times where I’m reminded that I’m married to my one true soul mate.
8) Last question: if you could have one superpower, what would it be?
I’m not sure if this is a superpower but I’ve always wanted to be able to fly! I’ve always imagined just cruising around up in the sky getting from one place to the next. I’m fascinated with aerial photographs that show what our world looks like from the sky. Sky-diving was the closest I’ve come and that was one of my best experiences to date!
Thanks for being a part of Take-a-Look Tuesday!
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