spotlight :: sjo photography

Earlier this week I sat down for coffee with Summer of SJO Photography. It felt like I was sitting down with an old friend--not a new one! We chatted for a couple hours, and time flew. Literally--two hours went by in a snap. She was happy to do a little Pearls Events Q+A with me, so sit back and enjoy!

Pearls Events :: How long have you been in the photography business?
Summer :: I have been shooting weddings for over 11 years but this is just my 2nd year of doing it full time. My son was born in October of 2006 and I decided that was as good as any time to quit my full time job and pursue photography as my career. I know, that is the story of so many photographers but it made perfect sense at the time and I am so very happy that I did!

Pearls Events :: What is your one must-shoot-it-shot?
Summer :: I don't really have one! Although a shot that I enjoy capturing is the first time the groom sees his bride. That time is precious. I have a perma-grin on my face the whole time. Every wedding is so different and I aim to capture who the bride and groom really are. I also love capturing the details. A certain look that the father of the bride gives to his daughter, the brides shoes, flowers, the groom having a moment with his mom. Although the photographer at my wedding did a great job, I do not have one detail shot. There is a lot of work that goes into your wedding day! Looking back 10, 20, 50 years from now it would be fun to remember all of the little things that made your day special.

Pearls Events :: How would you spend a Saturday if you weren't shooting a wedding?
Summer :: My DREAM Saturday would be to wake up, have a cup of coffee on my deck while reading a magazine, spending time with my son and husband, cleaning (yes, I do enjoy that in moderation!), and going out to Grand Haven for a walk. This doesn't happen very often but if I am not shooting a wedding and I have no other plans, this is what a typical Saturday would look like!

Pearls Events :: How did you end up in Grand Rapids?
Summer :: I grew up in Allendale and that is where I now live so the Grand Rapids area is my home. I have traveled many places and met many amazing people but I would still choose to live here. I think we have some of the best locations and the best people around.

Pearls Events :: What is your favorite part of the wedding day?
Summer :: My favorite part of the wedding day varies by each wedding. Each couple is so unique. Sometimes I enjoy working with just the two of them, sometimes it is the whole group. I love watching families interact, I love the emotion that comes with a wedding day, and I love capturing the beginning of a new life together for the bride and groom. Years ago, I would have preferred not to even shoot weddings; they were not my favorite. But, something has changed over the past 3-4 years. I don't know if I just feel more comfortable or what but they are definitely my favorite now and I am really honored that people choose me to be a part of their day.

Pearls Events :: What photographers do you admire?
Summer :: I admire the work of Scarlett Lillian. I think I first saw her work on a photography forum I am a member of but I have been addicted to her work ever since. I love the way she uses color and her sense of fashion. Her blog is a great read too. She seems down to earth and real. I think the photographer now is different than the photographer of 10 years ago. People want someone real and someone they can have fun with. Not someone who is going to boss them around and doing all stuffy poses.