Meet Jenny Kelley | Lifestyle Family Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenny Kelley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenny, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Honestly , my husband pushed me to go for it. I used to work full time (50+ hours) and I was just exhausted . I felt like my energy went into work and I missed so much at home. Then, I became a full time SAHM. That has it’s own set of struggles! I was exhausted with all the chores and started to feel like I was losing me. I tried a few crafty things at first to have an outlet. Tutu making , wooden signs, painting…..but nothing really felt right.

I’ve always loved photography and my husband recently bought a camera on a whim and we started learning about how to actually work it. (Beyond auto settings haha) I started to feel a sense of purpose. Was I great ? NO But I saw potential and a few close friends saw it as well. So I fought my self doubt and decided to just go for it .

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a lifestyle family photographer. So no middle of the mall photos or statue stiff posing. I enjoy capturing true emotion and genuine connection between families. I want to see the little scrunched noses, the dirty hands, the nose kisses and the snuggles. I want you to look back at your images and remember how you felt. As a momma, I know time is quick. They grow quickly and you’ll want to remember all the little details. I got where I am by consistently showing up. When I was fighting other struggles that life throws, I made sure I didn’t quit. It’s never easy. But man, it’s so worth it! Seeing how far I’ve come gives me hope daily because growth never stops.

I’m just a momma who understands that these years are quick and I want to give that forever memory to the families who work with me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s start the day with a quick hike up Stone Mountain. That’s always fun and challenging . It’ll make you mad going up but when you get to the top it’s gorgeous! Then we can grab some lunch at Tin Drum – their firecracker cauliflower is sooooooo good. Maybe soak up some sun at the Chattahoochee River – My favorite spot is at Jones Mill Park. Dinner would have to be at my favorite Tucker spot , Local 7 on Main Street! Just small town vibes and great food and drinks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So many people. First, my husband. He pushed me to go after things that I would have easily talked myself out of. My three kiddos for giving me a push to create more for them and show them that they can accomplish things they set their minds to. Tamara Cole was one of the first people to help me in photography and encourage me. Alyssa Hollis is the best cheerleader and an amazing mentor. Brooke Jefferson is my other amazing mentor. And just some friends I’ve met along the way that know this life and this industry and keep me uplifted.

Website: jennykelleyphotography.com

Instagram: instagram.com/jennykelleyphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennykelleyphotography/

Image Credits
JP Foto Story