I totally disagree that if u really want to be a photographer or a graphic designer you can just become one, neither buying a camera and a macbook or laptop in general can make you either of these things. Maybe it sounds closeminded or sth but thats how it is imo
anyone can buy a camera or a laptop but if you're not serious about it or willing to put in the hours of learning and practicing you will never get better... i think thats what he meant
@@ArgentoRAWRz anyone can do it if they really really want to. I bought a camera and knew nothing over the years my skills have increased dramatically. It's about how much you want it. Anyone can gain the skills with hard work.
The way she talks about Neopets..... sounds like a break-up but like a good one you know. Like two young kids who had a great young love but had to go separate ways cause of college or life or something like that... am I right?
Neopets was (and still is) very special to me....so yeah, I guess it's sorta like that :P I have a lot of memories on there. I guess that sounds kind of lame from the outside looking in, but it really was a big part of my life. I'm nostalgic :(
I absolutely love photography, i haven’t gotten a DSLR but I’ve taken pictures on my iPhone that got a lot of compliments. I know photography, and filmmaking for that matter, is truly for me. I spend so much time learning aspects of photography. I cant wait to get my camera next month so i can show everyone and myself what I am capable of.
Datavion McDowell one year late, but same. Photography seems so fun, and right now, I only use my iPhone. It’s like a hobby for me but it’s so fun it might become a career if I really want it to later in life.
Seeing those brush packs just gave me major flashbacks because I used them for YEARS 😂 Your guilds, website, & tutorials totally inspired 14 year old me to step up my layout game in my own guilds and learn Photoshop. Stumbling onto your channel a few months ago when I decided to look into photography totally blew my mind, because what were the chances that I'm learning new things from the same person just years later?
Taking the first steps of my photography journey and there’s a lot of Photography UA-camrs, talented people, but your content has some much heart and authenticity, I feel more confidant just listening to you and your journey. People will always gravitate to your work but you’ll always find success because you probably impact people’s days
Jessica, your story about photography is truly amazing. I know the struggles of being poor, of learning everything on yourself, of being a bit different than the rest, of not having many friends until you're grown up and getting tougher as a mean of survival (or at least I think I do). I'm impressed that you learned to code at 12 and you had your own site at 15. I'm studying Computer Science and want to become a professional programmer, but I learned how to code (C++) in 9th grade high school when I was 16 wow. Congratulations for your ambition and keep going, we like watching your videos!
You and Brandon inspire me so much, I can't wait to get a professional camera so I can edit some pics I take!!! Edit for everyone: yeah! I do take pictures on my device and edit them. I know I don't need a pro camera I just want to go further with my photography :)
You really don't need a pro camera. Most cameras these days are more than capable. An entry level dslr with some good lenses will produce some stunning photos as long as you know how to take a photo in the first place. :)
It’s important to take notes and be as creative as you can with what you currently have because having the gear with no creativity is the worst. Trustttt
You think I’m gonna sit here and watch a 20 minute long video by Jessica to start my 2018 UA-cam history??? Bc that’s exactly what I’m about to do yas come through
I always imagined how 'old-school' Jessica was? What was her past before photography? I never expected NEOPETS to come up😂😂😂...BTW that was so good to hear your shift from Graphic Designing to Photography😘. So motivational😉. (I wanted to say this for soo long - Love it when you change your accent😂😂😂your videos always make me laugh) Love you and your work, Jess😘❤
Dude, your story is so similar to me! I graduated college with a degree in graphic design, and I had a not-so-great experience. Wish I went to art school and explored more. I now, on my own, have been exploring my creativity, and I've started to have a huge, deep interest in photography. I've been getting into it lately with what little supplies I have. You're a big inspiration to me!
Ok WHAT? You are NOT 28 , you still look 20! Wow Jessica, you are truly inspiring. i am finally getting a DSLR after so many years dealing with point and shoot cameras. I cannot wait to become as obsessed as you are with your work.
This made my day! One thing I always remind myself is to never let social media, popularity or money change the way I am or compromise my values. That really is something that I keep myself in check with. Thank you so much
oh you read this.. I am new here but i watched your "4 photographers shoot same model" and i was hooked. I'm trying to study cinematography / Photography soo I'll deffinetly binge watch your channel at some point. Thanks for all the tutorials and guides you put out for the public ( that students like myself who can't afford film school live on) and have a great day :)
It makes me smile when I see how in love with your work you are and being obsessed with learning more. I know the feeling and it's a great feeling when you see the results of all things you've learned. You are very inspiring. :)
wow! all these references to neopets just gave me vivid flashbacks. i'm pretty sure i had a brief stint as a council member in one of your guilds hahaha, i was so proud, can't believe i've randomly come across you here
I'm really glad I stumbled across your channel! You are such a great person and it shows through your work. I completely look up to you and I'm learning a lot about photography!
Yes, I Needed this New Year Inspiration!! Im going hard on my Channel, Makeup, and Photography this year!! I'm a beginner photographer and love your videos!!
I've been watching your videos and following your work for just a few months now but you've inspired me so so much to pursue photography even though I know basically nothing about it. This video really gives me hope everytime I watch it because of how it goes on to show that even though you taught yourself everything and went through so much you're still a great person and photographer and are able to inspire so many people everyday. Maybe I can too. Keep doing what youre doing. Love your work!
Just when I thought I couldn't like you anymore, you become more awesome. I like the fact you remind me of a regular person tripping thru life trying to figure it all out on the way. This video made me really happy for some reason.
Thankful for UA-cam and artist like yourself that share tips and tricks as well as their experiences with others. Recently getting into photography, I’ve learned a lot through watching your channel and appreciate what you do. Getting a camera in the mail Friday! Can’t wait!
Ok I just had to comment on this video cus girl, honestly I have been following your stuff on and off since the Neopets days! I used to run my own guild and had a pretty successful 'site' aka pet pages before migrating offsite in like 2009 with my own domain (also was obsessed with Web design and learning html/css). I remember you had swimchick.net and I looked up to you so much with your fantastic tutorials and resources. I illustrate and am a programmer now but found you again a few years ago through UA-cam and saw you now do photography which is great because your videos are helping me improve in that too! Such a long comment but it's so cool to see how you've grown since good 'ol Neopets x p.s I still have some of my old graphics from my guilds and pet pages haha oh lord
You hosted swim chick?? Girl I've used your brush packs wayyy back when, it's so cool it's inspired your career! I have some regrets about not pursuing a more creative degree in college, but I love what I do now so it worked out. :)
Sooo, our beginnings are EERILY similar! Except I was obsessed with The X-Files. I remember seeing these fan sites and telling myself I was going to sit at my computer and learn Photoshop and HTML/CSS until I was that good. So that's what I did! Every waking moment I was on the computer creating collages, and brush sets, and websites! I was OBSESSED! I, too, was hosted, and just went with it! PS: if you Google the Way Back Machine, you **might** be able to find your old sites. I've been able to find my old ones, too. I'm still a web designer/developer, but I love photography too. I've been involved in the arts since middle school. I've been using my camera for 6 years now, but part time/hobbyist, so not full time. But I'm still learning, and I love it. I credit The X-Files, too! I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't been so obsessed! I have both a Photoshop toolbar tattoo, and an X-Files tattoo as a tribute. (Yes, a Photoshop toolbar tattoo. The story went viral when I first got it done. It was... surreal.) Loved hearing your story! Thanks for sharing!
you know what jessi, you are an amazing inspiration. i love your humor, spirit and intelligence. i really enjoy your vids, so thank you. you are incredible!
This made me soooooo emotional!!! I'm a graphic designer/photographer too and making fansites was how I started. Thank you for bringing back SO MANY memories.
I think I've never seen someone talking about their journey in such a deep way like you did there. Thank you for that! Btw you're crazy... and I love it! ♥
Hi from Jess, from the state of South Dakota. I truly love your posts. Watching your videos inspired me to get into photography. We have some very pretty landscapes out here. I just ordered my first DSLR and excited to get started. I like how down to earth and funny you are. You do awesome work! Now that I found you, I'm looking forward to watching some new videos. Keep up the inspiring work!
OMG, you talking about your transition from neopets to graphic design to photography made me tear up from my own memories and experience! Keep doing what you're doing
Oh my goodness! That was truly so inspiring! Thank-you. It's amazing how all the little things worked together to make you who you are today. I love how something like Neopets (a part of my childhood too) was a catalyst for you at a young age to become creative. And hearing about your gradual growth and evolution, and going through difficult seasons, and not having enough money at times, was also really encouraging. It's easy to compare myself to youtube icons like yourself and feel so inadequate, but seeing how your success took learning, and time and hard work inspires me to keep striving to do great things. Thanks again!
Hey, I just wanted to say that you have really inspired me to get more into photography, and (me thinking about what I want to do after school) I thought that I couldn’t do it as a job because I thought that it wouldn’t make me happy. Because of you, I have enjoyed photography so much! Thank you so much.
While I was watching your older videos, I was asking myself how did she get into photography. Then I decided to click your channel page to see if I could find this video and there it is! Thank you girl, you've been a great help! I'm excited to take my hobby to the next level.
I relate on such a high level to this video. I am also from MI and a freshman in college pursuing graphic design. However, photography has been growing more and more on me as it has just been a hobby the last couple of years. I am considering at least minoring it , but you are such an inspiration, and it’s refreshing to hear a story from someone more local who didn’t grow up in LA. I had a similar experience on a website that led me to graphic design as well. I am figuring it out as I go, which is something I learned from you!
This was such a lovely watch! I started photography in a similar way by teaching myself and it feels so rewarding when you look back at how much you've achieved 💖
I just recently found your channel and I love you!!!!! I, too, played Neopets and taught myself HTML and Photoshop to make guild and profile layouts!!!!
I really appreciate your openess about how you got into this photography thing. I've always wondered if i could have done it. I have done it as a hobby since 7th grade. I ended up in electronics then, engineering and retired. But, i still do photography as a hobby. Thanks for the life story. I was bullied in my first year of high school. No one did anything about it back then (1958). Ya had to tpugh it out until they dropped out of school at 16.
So great to hear about how you go to where you are now Jessica! Just starting out in photography and that kind of stuff now myself, you're a great inspiration :) love your style ♥️
My fav video!!❤ "I actually care about ppl and my friends" I like you as a person! This is like the 4th video ive watched. My fav one, I'm gonna have to check out more!
This is perfect timing because my hubby and I have just decided to starting learning photography in hopes of starting a family side business someday. It's really interesting and inspiring to learn how others began.
How did u start advertising ur photography business. I feel like I'm in a good place where I can start charging but I just don't know where or how to get clients.
Same, I came up with the idea of making business cards and passing them out around my neighborhood because it’s full of kids and families and I feel like they would be interested. I just don’t know how much to charge and stuff lol
TheMaddman187 A great way is to make business cards, then talk to local businesses or restaurants to see if they can either pass them out or just have them on display. Also, putting out banners on street corners and signs
I've loved photography for so long but it's hard when you get out of your comfort zone to get models and they don't ever show up. I gave up recently, pawned my camera and my laptop bc it's impossible to move forward and show what you can do when there's no one to help make it possible. Now I kind of regret it but at the same time not really. Watching your video is making me cry low-key bc I'll never get to where you are
you inspired me to start photography even though I'm a graphic designer in university at the moment which I love but wasn't really into photography at all until I started watching your videos and had to learn to take my own photos for my work. Thanks for sharing your story, keep up the hard work!
I still remember those days when my brother introduced me to Photoshop, of how you can manipulate wings into a person and retouch things (I was in 4th grade at that time so I still had much to learn about everything in life 😂) And I was like, "Really?" I was really excited about all the possibilities I could do using the program. The first Photoshop version I've used is Adobe Photoshop CS5, and the same as yours I did lots and lots of research and watch a lot of videos all to do with Photoshop, editing, and photography. And started off Photoshop by following tutorials of graphic texts, and then I got interested in photo manipulation, and then I started taking photos with only a Digital Camera, past forward a year my aunt gave me her DSLR camera and it came with the kit lens, 55-200mm zoom lens, and a 50mm f1.8 prime lens. And honestly, I felt lucky to have gotten it at only 12 years of age. But, I still had much to learn from it, because at the start I only shot in a Normal quality not RAW even though my aunt told me what RAW was all about but I really never understood it until I was on 8th-9th grade. Now I am very comfortable with using Photoshop and know almost all of the key shortcuts and stuff. But still, I am in the process of learning.
So inspiring.. it really goes to show how the little things impact you so much and shape you into the person that you end up being... I can totally relate with that
I just liked the the third of your videos in a row, it's weird because I usually never like videos on UA-cam. You seem totally down to earth and you make great content. So much inspiration right here! 💛💛
It's been almost a year since I got my canon 60d and I'm definitely still obsessed! But while I was saving up and when I first got it, photo and film was all I ever thought about! I really wish there was a better way to get models bc my friends and fam are about sick of me!
I recently considered photography as a career. I just learned how to use a camera this year and I never thought about pursuing photography because I would compare myself to people who were already holding a camera since they were born. It took me a while to get into it because I always doubted my skills but this video really inspired me. I feel like I’m going through the same journey. Thank you
I wanna be like you, I’m a beginner of photography and I’m just 15 years, so you inspire me to continue making photos and maybe when I grow up I can be good as you, thanks for teaching a lot of things ♥️
You and Brandon are my favorite photographers. I really like your styles and I learned so much from you two. I started with photography at the beginning of summer break and I got a job to save up money for my first camera. I also bought a new lens a couple weeks ago and I love learning about photography. Now I'm also saving up for a macbook and I want to buy lightroom. Your videos helped my soo much since I bought my first camera!! Thank you soo much for that! 💋
Wow, I never knew I'd hear the word Neopets again! I have to say, my first lessons in html, web design and graphic design was also because of the site! My 9 year old self would learn all these different stuff about web building just to have a guild too! I didn't necessarily go on to pursue an art/design degree or career like you, but I definitely still keep a creative side of me in my life. And Neopets was definitely one of the first things that really sparked me to be interested in design/art. Fast forward to now, I'm finally unleashing that inner part of myself and have been learning to draw/illustrate and be more creative. Also, does anyone remember Cybertown? It was a very late 90s/2000 site that also influence me a loot. My stupid kid self was never able to learn how it freaking worked, but just exploring the site was already so much fun~
Such a inspiring story. I used to think to be a good photographer you need all the big gears. But seeing your work my perspective has changed. I love how simple your photography set up is. Keep up the good work. ☺❤❤
This is so much fun to watch! I was surprised that you went into photography Jessica. I feel a lot of graphic designers end up there. It's really something beautiful, I started to move towards photography as well around 6-7 years ago :).
It may sound weird, but the way your followed every passion that came up to you really made relate to your story, also the part of coding. Thank you for sharing it and been an inspiration for all of us.
I love this. I relate somehow to it. I started to learn photoshop from a website when I was nearly 14. And now when I 25 years old. I feel that’s very impacted my life. Thank you for sharing. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Jess- this is a story all about how my life got flipped turned upside down and I'd like to take a minute and sit right here I'll tell you how I started photography and ended up here *dont mind me just rewatching that 20 times*
I loved this video! My story about getting into photography and portraiture is actually very similar to yours (At around the age of 12 I would take screenshots of The Sims 3, edit them and then post them on Tumblr). I mentioned you in my personal statement recently for my application to study at University starting Sept 2018 because over the past 1,, 1/2 years you have really influenced and inspired me to pursue fashion photography. Thank you.
#1 I love the way you say "but"
#2 My photography start was similiar to yours. It just goes to show anyone can do this if you really want it!
Manny Ortiz BUHH
Manny you played neopets too? Small world! Haha
I totally disagree that if u really want to be a photographer or a graphic designer you can just become one, neither buying a camera and a macbook or laptop in general can make you either of these things. Maybe it sounds closeminded or sth but thats how it is imo
anyone can buy a camera or a laptop but if you're not serious about it or willing to put in the hours of learning and practicing you will never get better... i think thats what he meant
@@ArgentoRAWRz anyone can do it if they really really want to. I bought a camera and knew nothing over the years my skills have increased dramatically. It's about how much you want it. Anyone can gain the skills with hard work.
The way she talks about Neopets..... sounds like a break-up but like a good one you know. Like two young kids who had a great young love but had to go separate ways cause of college or life or something like that... am I right?
Neopets was (and still is) very special to me....so yeah, I guess it's sorta like that :P I have a lot of memories on there. I guess that sounds kind of lame from the outside looking in, but it really was a big part of my life. I'm nostalgic :(
she's a sweet girl...
I think you can still play lol I had neopets plushies when I was younger 😍
I absolutely love photography, i haven’t gotten a DSLR but I’ve taken pictures on my iPhone that got a lot of compliments. I know photography, and filmmaking for that matter, is truly for me. I spend so much time learning aspects of photography. I cant wait to get my camera next month so i can show everyone and myself what I am capable of.
Datavion McDowell one year late, but same. Photography seems so fun, and right now, I only use my iPhone. It’s like a hobby for me but it’s so fun it might become a career if I really want it to later in life.
Did you get your camera?
Dude... I felt like I wrote that comment.. What you said, that's basically me
Seeing those brush packs just gave me major flashbacks because I used them for YEARS 😂 Your guilds, website, & tutorials totally inspired 14 year old me to step up my layout game in my own guilds and learn Photoshop. Stumbling onto your channel a few months ago when I decided to look into photography totally blew my mind, because what were the chances that I'm learning new things from the same person just years later?
Mygod same! I had like this bunch of websites I visited for "graphics", website templates, brushes, etc. One was like Crystal... something @.@
that’s amazing
It's awesome to see how much someone can grow by not being afraid of being themselves 😱❤
Taking the first steps of my photography journey and there’s a lot of Photography UA-camrs, talented people, but your content has some much heart and authenticity, I feel more confidant just listening to you and your journey. People will always gravitate to your work but you’ll always find success because you probably impact people’s days
Jessica, your story about photography is truly amazing. I know the struggles of being poor, of learning everything on yourself, of being a bit different than the rest, of not having many friends until you're grown up and getting tougher as a mean of survival (or at least I think I do). I'm impressed that you learned to code at 12 and you had your own site at 15. I'm studying Computer Science and want to become a professional programmer, but I learned how to code (C++) in 9th grade high school when I was 16 wow. Congratulations for your ambition and keep going, we like watching your videos!
The best thing in life is when your passion becomes your profession
omg Neopets!!! what a throwback!
Yuan Q. RIGHT?! 😂😂😂
You and Brandon inspire me so much, I can't wait to get a professional camera so I can edit some pics I take!!!
Edit for everyone: yeah! I do take pictures on my device and edit them. I know I don't need a pro camera I just want to go further with my photography :)
Mara_Rose yeah me tooo
Start with an Entry level DSLR before going all in I would suggest.
You really don't need a pro camera. Most cameras these days are more than capable. An entry level dslr with some good lenses will produce some stunning photos as long as you know how to take a photo in the first place. :)
It’s important to take notes and be as creative as you can with what you currently have because having the gear with no creativity is the worst. Trustttt
Mara_Rose omg same i so wanted a new cam but im too young and broke lol
You think I’m gonna sit here and watch a 20 minute long video by Jessica to start my 2018 UA-cam history??? Bc that’s exactly what I’m about to do yas come through
Neil Parekh omggg Love this comment!! I didn’t know if it was too long hahaha
I always imagined how 'old-school' Jessica was? What was her past before photography?
I never expected NEOPETS to come up😂😂😂...BTW that was so good to hear your shift from Graphic Designing to Photography😘. So motivational😉.
(I wanted to say this for soo long - Love it when you change your accent😂😂😂your videos always make me laugh) Love you and your work, Jess😘❤
Jessica’s next video “How I became a Rapper” lol I see you girl ... Lil Jezz
Aha 😂
Dude, your story is so similar to me! I graduated college with a degree in graphic design, and I had a not-so-great experience. Wish I went to art school and explored more. I now, on my own, have been exploring my creativity, and I've started to have a huge, deep interest in photography. I've been getting into it lately with what little supplies I have. You're a big inspiration to me!
Ok WHAT? You are NOT 28 , you still look 20! Wow Jessica, you are truly inspiring. i am finally getting a DSLR after so many years dealing with point and shoot cameras. I cannot wait to become as obsessed as you are with your work.
it's quite something finding someone like you on youtube... you have 640 k subs but you act like you have 64 , never change
This made my day! One thing I always remind myself is to never let social media, popularity or money change the way I am or compromise my values. That really is something that I keep myself in check with. Thank you so much
oh you read this.. I am new here but i watched your "4 photographers shoot same model" and i was hooked. I'm trying to study cinematography / Photography soo I'll deffinetly binge watch your channel at some point. Thanks for all the tutorials and guides you put out for the public ( that students like myself who can't afford film school live on) and have a great day :)
Just you talking about anything photography related makes me inspired, love your work and how you give me the energy to do what I love xx
Thank you for your genuineness your positivity and knowledge. I’m starting late in the photography game but I have learned a lot watching your videos.
I started my own photography account on Instagram and started pursuing photography because of you♥️you inspired me so much😊😊♥️
inger van biljon same
What is your ig?
What's your username?
Drop you're IG :D
Guys I'm on Instagram too as sohan_konar check my work out too
It makes me smile when I see how in love with your work you are and being obsessed with learning more. I know the feeling and it's a great feeling when you see the results of all things you've learned. You are very inspiring. :)
wow! all these references to neopets just gave me vivid flashbacks. i'm pretty sure i had a brief stint as a council member in one of your guilds hahaha, i was so proud, can't believe i've randomly come across you here
I'm really glad I stumbled across your channel! You are such a great person and it shows through your work. I completely look up to you and I'm learning a lot about photography!
Yes, I Needed this New Year Inspiration!! Im going hard on my Channel, Makeup, and Photography this year!! I'm a beginner photographer and love your videos!!
I've been watching your videos and following your work for just a few months now but you've inspired me so so much to pursue photography even though I know basically nothing about it. This video really gives me hope everytime I watch it because of how it goes on to show that even though you taught yourself everything and went through so much you're still a great person and photographer and are able to inspire so many people everyday. Maybe I can too. Keep doing what youre doing. Love your work!
I love your photos. I started photography two years ago, inspired by people like you.
Just when I thought I couldn't like you anymore, you become more awesome. I like the fact you remind me of a regular person tripping thru life trying to figure it all out on the way. This video made me really happy for some reason.
Thankful for UA-cam and artist like yourself that share tips and tricks as well as their experiences with others. Recently getting into photography, I’ve learned a lot through watching your channel and appreciate what you do. Getting a camera in the mail Friday! Can’t wait!
Ok I just had to comment on this video cus girl, honestly I have been following your stuff on and off since the Neopets days! I used to run my own guild and had a pretty successful 'site' aka pet pages before migrating offsite in like 2009 with my own domain (also was obsessed with Web design and learning html/css). I remember you had swimchick.net and I looked up to you so much with your fantastic tutorials and resources. I illustrate and am a programmer now but found you again a few years ago through UA-cam and saw you now do photography which is great because your videos are helping me improve in that too! Such a long comment but it's so cool to see how you've grown since good 'ol Neopets x
p.s I still have some of my old graphics from my guilds and pet pages haha oh lord
You hosted swim chick?? Girl I've used your brush packs wayyy back when, it's so cool it's inspired your career! I have some regrets about not pursuing a more creative degree in college, but I love what I do now so it worked out. :)
Sooo, our beginnings are EERILY similar! Except I was obsessed with The X-Files. I remember seeing these fan sites and telling myself I was going to sit at my computer and learn Photoshop and HTML/CSS until I was that good. So that's what I did! Every waking moment I was on the computer creating collages, and brush sets, and websites! I was OBSESSED! I, too, was hosted, and just went with it! PS: if you Google the Way Back Machine, you **might** be able to find your old sites. I've been able to find my old ones, too.
I'm still a web designer/developer, but I love photography too. I've been involved in the arts since middle school. I've been using my camera for 6 years now, but part time/hobbyist, so not full time. But I'm still learning, and I love it.
I credit The X-Files, too! I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't been so obsessed! I have both a Photoshop toolbar tattoo, and an X-Files tattoo as a tribute. (Yes, a Photoshop toolbar tattoo. The story went viral when I first got it done. It was... surreal.)
Loved hearing your story! Thanks for sharing!
you know what jessi, you are an amazing inspiration. i love your humor, spirit and intelligence. i really enjoy your vids, so thank you. you are incredible!
you are such an inspiration to me jessica, thank you for sharing this! couldn’t have come at a better time for me ☺️
OH MY GOD! This was so inspiring for me because I felt like you were retelling my life so far. Love you, and thank you!
This made me soooooo emotional!!! I'm a graphic designer/photographer too and making fansites was how I started. Thank you for bringing back SO MANY memories.
I think I've never seen someone talking about their journey in such a deep way like you did there. Thank you for that! Btw you're crazy... and I love it! ♥
Hi from Jess, from the state of South Dakota. I truly love your posts. Watching your videos inspired me to get into photography. We have some very pretty landscapes out here. I just ordered my first DSLR and excited to get started. I like how down to earth and funny you are. You do awesome work! Now that I found you, I'm looking forward to watching some new videos. Keep up the inspiring work!
OMG, you talking about your transition from neopets to graphic design to photography made me tear up from my own memories and experience! Keep doing what you're doing
JESSICA I TRULY ADMIRE YOU,,, YOU'VE BEEN AN ENCOURAGEMENT TO ME
Oh my goodness! That was truly so inspiring! Thank-you. It's amazing how all the little things worked together to make you who you are today. I love how something like Neopets (a part of my childhood too) was a catalyst for you at a young age to become creative. And hearing about your gradual growth and evolution, and going through difficult seasons, and not having enough money at times, was also really encouraging. It's easy to compare myself to youtube icons like yourself and feel so inadequate, but seeing how your success took learning, and time and hard work inspires me to keep striving to do great things. Thanks again!
Hey, I just wanted to say that you have really inspired me to get more into photography, and (me thinking about what I want to do after school) I thought that I couldn’t do it as a job because I thought that it wouldn’t make me happy. Because of you, I have enjoyed photography so much! Thank you so much.
Its 7 am here in the Philippines, I had no sleep since 12 am, I watched this video I didnt get sleepy and I was motivated :DDDD THANKS JESS!
While I was watching your older videos, I was asking myself how did she get into photography. Then I decided to click your channel page to see if I could find this video and there it is! Thank you girl, you've been a great help! I'm excited to take my hobby to the next level.
Thank you for your story and for the way you told it. Such a pleasure to watch your videos. I saw you more than my friends lately :)
you're inspiring me so much jessica, thank you for everything
I relate on such a high level to this video. I am also from MI and a freshman in college pursuing graphic design. However, photography has been growing more and more on me as it has just been a hobby the last couple of years. I am considering at least minoring it , but you are such an inspiration, and it’s refreshing to hear a story from someone more local who didn’t grow up in LA. I had a similar experience on a website that led me to graphic design as well. I am figuring it out as I go, which is something I learned from you!
WE LOVE YOU, JESS!!!!!!!
THANKS FOR BEING IN THE INTERNET💖
This was such a lovely watch! I started photography in a similar way by teaching myself and it feels so rewarding when you look back at how much you've achieved 💖
I just recently found your channel and I love you!!!!!
I, too, played Neopets and taught myself HTML and Photoshop to make guild and profile layouts!!!!
I really appreciate your openess about how you got into this photography thing. I've always wondered if i could have done it. I have done it as a hobby since 7th grade. I ended up in electronics then, engineering and retired. But, i still do photography as a hobby. Thanks for the life story. I was bullied in my first year of high school. No one did anything about it back then (1958). Ya had to tpugh it out until they dropped out of school at 16.
OMG!!! I loooooooved Neopets too. It's kinda cool that that site was how you got your start!
So great to hear about how you go to where you are now Jessica! Just starting out in photography and that kind of stuff now myself, you're a great inspiration :) love your style ♥️
My fav video!!❤ "I actually care about ppl and my friends"
I like you as a person! This is like the 4th video ive watched. My fav one, I'm gonna have to check out more!
It's scary how similar you are to me. Thank you for sharing. Keep moving forward!
This is perfect timing because my hubby and I have just decided to starting learning photography in hopes of starting a family side business someday. It's really interesting and inspiring to learn how others began.
You are such a big inspiration to me. I watch all your videos and I can't stop watching them !!!
That was beautifully honest and vulnerable. Thank you for sharing this Jessica! 🙂
I literally bought my own camera to start photography a week ago and your channel inspires me so much
How did u start advertising ur photography business. I feel like I'm in a good place where I can start charging but I just don't know where or how to get clients.
Same, I came up with the idea of making business cards and passing them out around my neighborhood because it’s full of kids and families and I feel like they would be interested. I just don’t know how much to charge and stuff lol
TheMaddman187 A great way is to make business cards, then talk to local businesses or restaurants to see if they can either pass them out or just have them on display. Also, putting out banners on street corners and signs
I've loved photography for so long but it's hard when you get out of your comfort zone to get models and they don't ever show up. I gave up recently, pawned my camera and my laptop bc it's impossible to move forward and show what you can do when there's no one to help make it possible. Now I kind of regret it but at the same time not really. Watching your video is making me cry low-key bc I'll never get to where you are
I love this so much!! We love a resigned Graphic designer and actual photographer, Relatablee
you inspired me to start photography even though I'm a graphic designer in university at the moment which I love but wasn't really into photography at all until I started watching your videos and had to learn to take my own photos for my work. Thanks for sharing your story, keep up the hard work!
I still remember those days when my brother introduced me to Photoshop, of how you can manipulate wings into a person and retouch things (I was in 4th grade at that time so I still had much to learn about everything in life 😂) And I was like, "Really?" I was really excited about all the possibilities I could do using the program. The first Photoshop version I've used is Adobe Photoshop CS5, and the same as yours I did lots and lots of research and watch a lot of videos all to do with Photoshop, editing, and photography. And started off Photoshop by following tutorials of graphic texts, and then I got interested in photo manipulation, and then I started taking photos with only a Digital Camera, past forward a year my aunt gave me her DSLR camera and it came with the kit lens, 55-200mm zoom lens, and a 50mm f1.8 prime lens. And honestly, I felt lucky to have gotten it at only 12 years of age. But, I still had much to learn from it, because at the start I only shot in a Normal quality not RAW even though my aunt told me what RAW was all about but I really never understood it until I was on 8th-9th grade. Now I am very comfortable with using Photoshop and know almost all of the key shortcuts and stuff. But still, I am in the process of learning.
When I feel uninspired I always come to your channel and it motivates me every time :)
Jessica you are the best
Beautiful inside and out! You’re such an inspiration.
I haven't watched your videos in a while! I love the intro!
That was really beautiful, thankyou for sharing your story. Really inspires a lot of us 💕
So inspiring.. it really goes to show how the little things impact you so much and shape you into the person that you end up being... I can totally relate with that
Very honest and vulnerable- part of what makes you so likeable
I just liked the the third of your videos in a row, it's weird because I usually never like videos on UA-cam.
You seem totally down to earth and you make great content. So much inspiration right here! 💛💛
I love how simple this video is. Everything comes from the heart and has really motivated me to keep going!
Thanks for sharing your journey. I loved Neopets, it's cool to see you did so much more with the game!
I love your photography! You really inspire me to do new things with my own photography 👍
Thank for sharing your experience! I'm your fan when started photography, your videos also help me a lot :)!!!
Definitely appreciate how genuine and real this was. Thank you, and congrats on your continued success.
So great I've watch it now. I need something like this! I standing between roads and don't know what to do. Thanks Jessica
It's been almost a year since I got my canon 60d and I'm definitely still obsessed! But while I was saving up and when I first got it, photo and film was all I ever thought about! I really wish there was a better way to get models bc my friends and fam are about sick of me!
Try finding upcoming models on ig from your area like you and just offer free shoots and plug them on ig or just work out an arrangement
Omg! Just ran into your channel and I just love it! You gained another subscriber! 😍😍
I recently considered photography as a career. I just learned how to use a camera this year and I never thought about pursuing photography because I would compare myself to people who were already holding a camera since they were born. It took me a while to get into it because I always doubted my skills but this video really inspired me. I feel like I’m going through the same journey. Thank you
I wanna be like you, I’m a beginner of photography and I’m just 15 years, so you inspire me to continue making photos and maybe when I grow up I can be good as you, thanks for teaching a lot of things ♥️
So happy you posted this!! Also you and Brandon are in my top 5 photographers and you guys expire me so much!! And your intro is awesome 😎 👏🏽
You and Brandon are my favorite photographers. I really like your styles and I learned so much from you two. I started with photography at the beginning of summer break and I got a job to save up money for my first camera. I also bought a new lens a couple weeks ago and I love learning about photography. Now I'm also saving up for a macbook and I want to buy lightroom. Your videos helped my soo much since I bought my first camera!! Thank you soo much for that! 💋
I started photography on my own instagram and u are my biggest inspiration
Wow, I never knew I'd hear the word Neopets again! I have to say, my first lessons in html, web design and graphic design was also because of the site! My 9 year old self would learn all these different stuff about web building just to have a guild too! I didn't necessarily go on to pursue an art/design degree or career like you, but I definitely still keep a creative side of me in my life. And Neopets was definitely one of the first things that really sparked me to be interested in design/art. Fast forward to now, I'm finally unleashing that inner part of myself and have been learning to draw/illustrate and be more creative. Also, does anyone remember Cybertown? It was a very late 90s/2000 site that also influence me a loot. My stupid kid self was never able to learn how it freaking worked, but just exploring the site was already so much fun~
Wow, I think I fell in love. Thank you for sharing your story and being an inspiration. I'm glad to see all your hard work paying off.
Love this ! You’re a great inspiration !
u're the first photographer that inspire me so much! thx a lot for ur videos Jes! It helps me a lot☺
This video ❤️ you are so humble❤️❤️you are such an inspiration! Keep it up 😊
YOOOOOO, I use to get on your website all the time to make my own designs for myspace and tumblr back in the day. OMG THATS SO CRAZY! LEGEND!
Such a inspiring story. I used to think to be a good photographer you need all the big gears. But seeing your work my perspective has changed. I love how simple your photography set up is. Keep up the good work. ☺❤❤
This is so much fun to watch! I was surprised that you went into photography Jessica. I feel a lot of graphic designers end up there. It's really something beautiful, I started to move towards photography as well around 6-7 years ago :).
It may sound weird, but the way your followed every passion that came up to you really made relate to your story, also the part of coding. Thank you for sharing it and been an inspiration for all of us.
Thank you so much for watching! And no, that's not weird at all, it's very flattering :)
I absolutely love your transparency. As an inspiring self taught photographer myself, I definitely can relate to your story. Thanks for sharing.
Literally neopets is how I got into html and all of that. I'm with you girl!!
I love this. I relate somehow to it. I started to learn photoshop from a website when I was nearly 14. And now when I 25 years old. I feel that’s very impacted my life. Thank you for sharing. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you
Jess- this is a story all about how my life got flipped turned upside down and I'd like to take a minute and sit right here I'll tell you how I started photography and ended up here
*dont mind me just rewatching that 20 times*
I loved this video! My story about getting into photography and portraiture is actually very similar to yours (At around the age of 12 I would take screenshots of The Sims 3, edit them and then post them on Tumblr). I mentioned you in my personal statement recently for my application to study at University starting Sept 2018 because over the past 1,, 1/2 years you have really influenced and inspired me to pursue fashion photography. Thank you.
omg!! the first part of the video "your song" I'm cracking up about it now! hahaha Your too funny and cute!
You are so inspiring! Keep up the awesome work 😊 Luv ya!!!