Today we’d like to introduce you to Whitney.
Hi Whitney, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve loved photography from an early age. It all started with a disposable film camera and my friend modeling for me. I was also the photographer for the Gatlinburg Pittman High School Yearbook Staff for several years, which gave me a deeper appreciation for the art. When I went to college, I took a photography course during my junior year — it was such a popular class that I had to wait until then to get in. My professor suggested I consider changing my major to photography, but by that point, I was already too far along in my current program to start over.
After graduation, life took me down different paths — sales, banking, and dental — but I always found myself wondering, ‘What if I had pursued photography?’ However, by that time, I had a mortgage, a family, and two young boys to care for, so starting fresh in a new career seemed daunting. I decided to slowly dip my toes back into photography, picking up shoots on the weekends and during my days off.
With the encouragement of friends who believed in me, I took the leap and decided to give it a real try. They were my first clients and helped me build my portfolio. Over time, my business grew, and although I may have started later in life than many others in the field, I’m so glad I finally took the plunge and followed my dream.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting a photography business later in life, after having already built a career and a family, presented its own set of challenges. One of the biggest struggles was balancing the demands of family life, a 9-5 job, and the financial stability I needed with the desire to follow my passion. Early on, I had to take things slowly, shooting on weekends and days off, which meant juggling multiple roles.
Another challenge was building my business from the ground up. I didn’t have a formal background in photography beyond what I’d learned in college, so I had to continuously improve my skills and learn the ins and outs of running a business. Thankfully, I had the support of friends who helped me get started, but even so, it was difficult to find my footing at first.
There were also times of self-doubt — especially in the beginning, when I felt like I was starting later than most of my peers. But what kept me going was remembering why I started in the first place and the encouragement I received from those around me. As the business grew and I gained more experience, those struggles became lessons that helped shape the photographer and entrepreneur I am today.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Whitney Jo Photography?
My business is a small, but passionate, photography business focused on delivering a personalized, high-quality experience for every client. What sets me apart is my dedication to customer service, which I’ve valued in every career I’ve had before photography. I’ve always believed that providing an excellent experience is just as important as capturing beautiful images. I want my clients to feel comfortable, at ease, and confident that they’re getting exactly what they expect from our time together.
Currently, I specialize in family and couple photography, but I’m excited to expand into weddings in 2025. What I’m most proud of in my brand is the way I prioritize client relationships and make sure each session feels unique. I set very high standards for how clients should be treated. I always ask myself, ‘What would I need or want in this situation?’ and I use that as a guide to provide the best experience I can.
My goal is to create not just photographs, but lasting memories, and I want clients to leave knowing they’ve been treated with the utmost care. I believe that when clients feel valued and understood, they are more relaxed, which allows me to capture genuine, heartfelt moments that they’ll cherish forever.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
While I don’t always have as much time as I’d like to read, I’m a big fan of podcasts because I can listen while juggling the many roles I have. For work, I love listening to photography-related podcasts like *Book More Clients* by Brooke Jefferson and *Mini Sessions Made Easy* by Rebecca Rice. These have been incredibly helpful in growing my business and learning new strategies to connect with clients.
In addition to the professional side, I also enjoy some lighter, more relaxing comedy podcasts — they’re a great way to unwind after a busy day. Another one of my favorites is *No More Running* by Crystal Loyd, which blends spirituality with personal growth. It’s a nice way to balance the hustle of work with a little mindfulness and reflection.
I find that a mix of learning, humor, and spiritual inspiration helps me stay grounded, motivated, and ready to give my best to both my business and my personal life.
Pricing:
- 30 minute session starting at $250
- 60 minute session starting at $400
- 90 minute session starting at $500
- Elopements/Weddings starting at $750
Contact Info:
- Website: https://whitneyjophotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitney_jo_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552330552602&sk=about
- Other: https://whitneyjophotography.com/blog/
