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Conversations with Jen Szypkowski

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Szypkowski.

Hi Jen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I’ve always been a creative person. I was always drawing and coloring as a kid and took several art classes in high school; drawing, painting, and ceramics. I’ve always loved taking photos – I used to put a blanket up for a backdrop and take photos of the family pets! I started with landscape photography, and then when I had my son, I bought my first DSLR camera. Many of my friends were starting to have babies during that time, so they asked if I could do maternity photos, newborn photos, milestone photos & family photos. I eventually started to shoot weddings and instantly fell in love! It’s crazy to look back from where I started to where I am now.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh gosh, no, haha! With any creative process, there will always be struggles along the way. I know I’ve come a long way from where I started (editing on PicMonkey (cringe), logo changes, mailing out photos to clients on discs, so many things!) Everything has been a learning opportunity, and I’m still learning. Thankfully the photography community has changed over the years and is community over competition, and it’s so great to be a part of it all. From connecting on social media to Facebook groups where we can join, styled shoots & workshops – it’s an amazing community to be a part of, and everyone has each other’s backs and is always willing to help with anything.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Minnesota-based wedding & family photographer. I also do brand photography, seniors, elopements & proposals. I’d say it’s equal parts wedding and family photography that I’m “known” for. I think my personal growth over the last few years is what I am most proud of. I’ve pushed myself more and have gotten “out of my comfort zone,” and it’s been the best thing ever! Being a mom to two crazy boys can set me apart from others. I understand that your kiddos probably aren’t cooperating, so I fully go with their vibe. I can connect with other mamas and reassure them when their kiddos are all over the place. I’ve had several clients reach out to me after their sessions that are amazed that I even got a shot of everyone looking at the camera at the same time, let alone one where everyone is smiling!

What was your favorite childhood memory?
I think my favorite childhood memory is when my parents would have their deck parties. The house would be filled with many people, and there was always tons of food. I got to stay up way past my bedtime and run around our neighborhood with all the other kids. Even when it was time to come in and go to bed, I didn’t mind because the deck was right under my bedroom window, so I would listen to my dad and all his friends play guitars and sing 70’s, 80’s & 90’s rock ballads and fall asleep to everyone’s conversations & laughter.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Head shot/personal photo taken by Hannah Nicole Photography – edited by me

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