Meet Jenelle Kemper | Photographer

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

Hi Jenelle, what role has risk played in your life or career?
In High School, I knew I wanted to be a photographer. But the school career counselors all told me- “don’t waste your time, you won’t make any money because photographers are a dime a dozen.” So, of course I listened to them and went on to get a degree in Hotel Management, because all of their placement tests told me to do that. Fast forward to 2011 and the birth of my first daughter…… I still wanted to be a photographer, and I was now a stay-at-home mom, so I decided to take a HUGE risk and go for it! We should all feel the freedom of being able to take a risk once in a while to do something we love. Life is short. You need to find what you love and DO IT. It doesn’t have to be a business, but we all need to spend time focusing on something that brings us happiness. Pursuing my photography these past 10 years (although only a few of those years actually as a business) has been one of the BEST decisions I have ever made. It was a long journey getting to where I am now, but it was totally worth it. This year, 2021, I decided to take another risk and turn part of my photography into another business. My 2 young daughters (ages 6 and 9) and I started an online Etsy store, 3 Classy Chicks, selling greeting cards with photos of our farm-raised chicks in vintage tea cups. Starting another small business in the middle of a pandemic…. Why not? I’m teaching my daughters that taking risks is ok. We learn from our mistakes and we celebrate the little things. Plus, learning about business at a young age is something that I am thrilled they can experience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Photographers (and artists in general) all have a different “style”. That’s what makes each of us unique. It’s just a matter of finding that style and that can be difficult. Sometimes, style has to change to fit a particular client a little bit, and that’s ok. YOU are still in there and being represented and your art is still being reflected in what you are creating. I’m still not 100% sure what I would call my style….. but people like my style and that’s why they book with me and refer me to others, so I will keep doing what I’m doing! I like capturing the more natural side of things. I want true colors, real expressions, and unique moments that I want to be able to capture for a client so they will never forget it. I’ve gone from people telling me I would never be good enough as a photographer, to becoming an LLC. Nothing about it was easy. But I didn’t give up. It just took me a while to chase my dream and I’m ok with that. I can’t wait to see what else the future holds!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Estes Park is the best little town here in Northern Colorado. July is probably the best time of year, because then you can spend the evenings at the Rooftop Rodeo. You’ll usually find me behind the scenes, photographing the animals and excitement. The hiking is amazing and there is so much to explore in Estes Park. I love the Stanley Hotel as well and have even done a Senior Session there! (talk about a fun photo session!) Rocky Mountain National Park just can’t be beat, no matter what time of year it is. I love doing session up there in the Fall. The colors are absolutely gorgeous!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Simply put, surround yourself with people who will cheer you on during the good times and the bad. Loved ones, family, friends, colleagues, a Facebook group. The list is endless. There is always someone out there who believes in you.

Website: www.jkemperphotography.com

Instagram: @jkemperphotography

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jkemperphotography

Other: Name of photography business changed: JKemper Photography LLC Information for Photo Cards (3 Classy Chicks) Shopping link for cards: www.etsy.com/shop/3classychicks Facebook: www.facebook.com/3classychicks Instagram: @3classychicks