Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in photography but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jayne Jackson, Founder of Jayne Jackson Photography, located in Ferndown, Dorset, United Kingdom.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
As a theatrical, dance, and empowerment photographer, I am interested in creating art that drives social change and promotes mental health, equality, and gender issues. Belief in the power of the image to drive positive and empowering change is central to my Ph.D. research on the catalytic validity of images as constructive interventions in contemporary society. My multi-award-winning personal project, "Asking For It," raises awareness about victim blaming and consent in cases of sexual violence and domestic abuse. It currently has an online, interactive jury experience at www.askingforit.net, where people can see and cast judgment on the historical mugshot series. This work was recently exhibited at Doughty Street Chambers, London. My commercial customers include theatres, theatrical productions, dance schools, housing associations, and charities.
Tell us about yourself
As an empowerment activist, I am active in supporting women's rights and promoting equality and body positivity. This includes being the official UK photographer for THE REAL CATWALK and supporter of the 'REAL body" movement, which celebrates and increases the visibility of people of all ages, gender, ability, size, shape, and sexuality. I am a former foster carer for teenagers and the trustee of a teen empowerment charity, so working to better the lives of young people is central to my motivation, personal work, and professional ethic. My professional work in photography really began to thrive during and after my master's degree, which led me to concentrate on work that is authentic and makes an impact. I now run a successful photography practice alongside my Phd, touring existing projects and ongoing personal research.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would definitely say that changing the way I practice is my biggest achievement as a photographer. It takes time and bravery to really concentrate on projects you care about and dedication to thoroughly underpin them with solid multidisciplinary research, but the rewards are worth it. I have many goals to work on, but the success of the Asking for it serves in the media, award recognition, and multiple exhibitions, in particular, is something I'm really proud of, not because of those things directly, but because feedback indicates that it does engage new audiences to reflect on victim blaming as a social issue and therefore in some contributes to social change.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Sometimes as a sole practitioner, things can be lonely. I don't work in an office with others or have a Christmas party, for example! I've found, though, through collaboration and networks, such as the F22 group of female photographers, I have a huge tribe of fellow creatives and collaborators that enrich my practice and, well, life, really! In some ways, the worst thing is actually the best thing.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Really think about what authentically matters to you and focus on a business that reflects that. It will take a lot of time and energy to grow a business, so make it something you really have time and energy for!
- Be kind. I don't mean work for free or be a pushover, but be nice and mean it. I like to work with strong empowerment-based values (toward myself and others). I like to help lift others up and support them wherever possible.
- Look after yourself, and it's OK to say no. Self-care is really important, mentally and physically. If you are at your best, you can put your best into things. This lesson took me a long time to learn but has transformed my business and professional practice. Each client and interaction benefits from me being the best version of what I can be that day.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.jaynejacksonphotography.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaynejacksonphotography
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaynejacksonphotography/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jaynej_images
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayne-jackson-b52a57208/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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