With the relaunch of the JYP newsletter, what perfect timing to introduce myself to those who are new here. Hello, I’m Jen, I’m so happy you’re here. I’m the owner and photographer at Jennifer Yvonne Photography and this is my family.
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It’s been a little while but – I’m back! And I’m so pumped for the future in my personal and professional life!
But where was I the last few years? It’s a bit of a story, so here goes…
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I’ve always been an optimistic gal, comfortable and content with how my life was going. I was approaching a decade as a photographer, and full of ambition to become better than I was yesterday. Always thinking positively about everything that was in my life. I lived an ordinary life doing all the everyday things. I realize now that I was content but not living my life to the fullest.
Then, right before Thanksgiving 2020, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor.
Time stood still.
I felt broken and helpless. That news was devastating. I didn’t realize I was about to go through the worst time in my life. I kept it from my clients for as long as possible, so my situation wouldn’t affect their session, as I still showed up to do what I love for the families I hold most dear. Photographing sessions were like therapy to me at that time. But still, that news was hard to grasp, and I’m sure many could see it on my face. I had to get it together as best as possible because I still had the Holiday rush to get through. In my moments of weakness, my clients lifted me back up. They were so understanding, patient, and kind. Indeed the most beautiful, heartfelt connections with those I was supposed to serve, not the other way around. In a way, I felt guilty, yet reassured that these relationships are like family to me, as I must be to them.
During that year, I focused more on my family, being present and at the moment. Time is precious, and I didn’t know how much I had left with them. Soon my social media platforms fell behind. I wondered if everyone had forgotten JYP.
Fast forward, I had a craniotomy to remove the tumor at the end of 2021. My husband and I left my boys behind on Christmas Day to head to John Hopkins. I prayed God would get me through so my boys would not lose their mom at Christmas. I didn’t think that timing through.
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Praise God; I made it! I was on the other side. I was on the road to recovery.
Being an overachiever, doer, and go-getter, I quickly realized how difficult recovery is. It took more time than I thought. I returned to work six weeks post-surgery, which was probably too soon as it was very challenging. I couldn’t move or concentrate like I once could. I felt defeated, but I kept pushing forward. As the months passed, it got more manageable, but something needed to give. Something was missing.
I took time and did some soul-searching. I needed a change, so I accepted a position at “The Institute For Integrative Intelligence” and worked from home as an Administrative Coordinator. I loved it. The passion behind coaching was intriguing. But while starting a new position, a new school year and sports were beginning for my boys, all while still running JYP. I couldn’t keep up. I took a step back and left the Administrative Coordinator position in just a few short months. I’m so blessed to have had the opportunity to work with them because it lit a spark within me, a flame that had been dim for quite some time.
I’m climbing that mountain again and ready to take on every experience, new adventures and endeavors. I’ve realized on a personal level that today is a gift, tomorrow is not promised, and time is precious. I’ve recently read a quote: “If your dreams don’t scare you, then they’re not big enough.” Mine are huge, and I can’t wait to conquer the world – and I hope you’ll be alongside me for the journey.
My promise is that I’ll never let go of this passion. I will continue to pour my heart and soul into each session I photograph, ensuring your legacy is documented in the most natural way. I want you to relive those moments every time you walk past the portrait hanging in your hall. Always reminded of the little details that quickly change that you want to hold onto, so dear to your heart.
Sincerely,
Jen
P.S. This is a glimpse of our most recent family session. They are my everything, my reason, and my why.