One of the best gifts mothers can receive (and gift themselves) is professional photos of their children, capturing for a lifetime the fleeting moments of childhood. We absolutely love South Carolina-based portrait photographer, Jessie Baughman, who specializes in black and white portrait photography. Her heirloom-style portraits hang in homes across the country and perhaps one day yours, too! She hosts sessions in various cities and will be in Dallas soon. Details below as well as our past Q&A with Jesssie!
How to Book:
Jessie will be in Dallas September 10-12th. Email bookingjbimages@gmail.com to book Dallas or in South Carolina. And follow on Instagram for updates about other cities. Sessions are quick and easy and she gives you tips before arrival on how to best prepare for the session!
Q: How did you get started in this style of photography?
A: I am a wife and mom of two little girls from Columbia, SC. A former Pre-school Special Education teacher, I left the field shortly after my oldest was born. I loved working with young children, and found myself missing the classroom. This was when my interest in photography grew. I practically had a camera glued to my hands that first year of motherhood, but always found myself taking headshots of my little one. I have always been drawn to studio photography, and with the exception of a few high school photography classes and self-study courses, I am primarily self taught.
Q: Can you tell me about this style of photography and how it is unique?
A: I was drawn to so many aspects of these portraits: The catchlights in the child’s eyes, the contrast and shadows on little features of the face, and how the black and white seems to capture childhood moments and expressions with so much authenticity. When I cull through images after a session, I try not to always pull the “standard” smiling, head on shots. I really am drawn toward the expressions and images that we can’t tell a child to show us: Belly laughs, a shy expression, the look of curiosity and wonder. It is all there for me to document, and I think my ability to recognize these tiny microseconds, is my greatest strength as a photographer. These are the moments I want to remember as a mother.
Q: Why do these make special gifts?
A: These are such special heirloom photographs! Many of these images will be displayed in homes for decades to come, and it makes me feel so humbled that I get to be a part of that.
Q: You are a well-known South Carolina photographer. How did you start doing sessions in other areas?
A: After a few Texas based children’s clothing companies shared my images, I had such demand to shoot in the Dallas area, and doors just seemed to open for my travels. A very sweet follower (and now friend) invited me to use her home to host sessions in Dallas. Our first shoot booked in less than fifteen minutes, and our second booked in less than ten. I have been so blown away by the excitement and hospitality of my Texas clients. I have had several clients that have so genuinely and sometimes tearfully, thanked me for traveling to Texas to share my gifts and document these little moments for them.
Visit Jessie Baughman Images for more information.
What do you think?