Jessica Reeves claims to have been "very average" at school — "never did badly, never did amazingly well". But after two years as a photographer she's come to believe that this is something she can be great at and love at the same time. Ideal foundations on which to build a career!

The biggest lesson she's learned is very simple: make friends. "Running your own business can be pretty lonely, especially at the beginning when you feel you are running along with a blindfold on. Making friends with other photographers, or others in the industry, takes a huge burden off your shoulders when you need a hand to hold or a bit of help. I am really lucky to have a group of people I can always turn to if I have a problem."

We asked Jessica to tell us something about herself...

Some people believe that taking photos takes away from the moment. How do you feel about that? Do you think the camera gets in the way?

I think it completely depends on the type of photographer you are. My style of photography is very non-intrusive, with my 70-200mm lens my most used. The last thing I want at a wedding is to be the centre of attention, so I will hold back for most of the day taking photos as they happen. I think this enables me to get a more honest natural image. 

What do you look for when taking photos?

Good light. I will often move a couple from a pretty location if the light is unflattering. When candidly shooting I look for a reaction, this could be laughter or crying. I feel a great photo is a capture of a strong emotion. 

How would you describe your style? 

I would describe it as light, fine art and organic.

What are your tips for people wanting to get into photography? If you were to start again what would you do differently?

Don’t feel like you have to be great at every type of photography straight away. At the beginning I thought I had to offer everything, and have slowly come to the conclusion that I don’t love all types of photography in the same way that I love photographing weddings.  

What’s your point of difference?

My ability to see light, and how it affects an image, is a reason why a lot of clients book me. It has taken me a couple of years to finally perfect my editing style, which is light with a film effect to it. I have often been asked my editing secrets which I do keep close to my chest.

What’s something you stand by?
 
To always deliver what I promise. I will always stay longer, work harder and deliver sooner. 

Why should people get a professional photographer? 

Because you only get one opportunity to capture that moment. You never regret buying quality. 

Tell us about these photographs

Photographing Neave and Patrick’s wedding was an act of fate. Having spent the first twelve years of my life living in Manchester, I went to school with Neave for two years of high school before moving to the Lakes. Fourteen years later Neave came across my website while looking for fine art wedding photographers. This wedding was like stepping back in time for me. Seeing school friends from fourteen years earlier, all grown up, was a very strange feeling. I couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful wedding. With a perfect outdoor ceremony and amazing scenery at Rivington Hall Barn in Lancashire. 

Why does printing matter to you? Has selling products such as Queensberry helped your business?

Photographs are taken so that memories are remembered. Hiding those memories in a drawer or on a computer is not doing those memories justice. I feel they should be framed and displayed in albums to really give them the respect they deserve.

I’ve always wanted to portray a luxury brand. Offering Queensberry albums helps a lot towards achieving this goal. All my clients comment on how beautiful they are. They scream quality and sophistication and fit my brand perfectly. 

Keep an eye out for for our Album of the week post coming soon, featuring Jessica's new display sample. 

Alexandria x