Some of my best adventures — personally and professionally — come from a bit of trust and a lot of spontaneity. With less than 12 hours’ notice, the lovely Jessi suggested we explore unfamiliar areas of downtown Rochester with our cameras. I immediately jumped at the idea of some Girl Time (and adult conversation), a little golden morning sunlight and exploring our new area. The only catch? Meeting at 6am! Seriously though, well worth it. 

Jessi is the owner of Lovebug Photography, which specializes in family, childrens’ and newborn photography in our area. She’s also a proud Military wife, a woman of supreme strength and faith and an incredible momma to her two young kiddos. 

Jessi and I discovered one another through the Rochester Tuesdays Together group of The Rising Tide Society, which is based on the idea that we need more community and less competition among local creatives. The group meets once a month to network and discuss a variety of topics and Jessi is not only truly engaged and supportive, but has been soaking new ideas into her business. She’s also mentoring with Saratoga Springs photographer Nicole Starr Photography and tweaking some behind-the-scenes things. 

While Jessi and I laid in dew-soaked dandelion patches at sunrise and strolled quiet city streets and empty mansion gardens together, I loved that we were just as much at ease talking camera lenses and upcoming shoots as we were talking about our future plans and dreams. Jessi just brings lightness and joy into a room and I’m so grateful for those early morning hours together. We’re already planning our next photography adventure, but for now, we’re just loving our new headshots (mine are gorgeous) and a deepening friendship. 

I LOVE my headshots. I get so nervous and uncomfortable on the other side of the lens, but Jessi kept me comfortable, made me feel beautiful and captured what I feel like is the “real” me — goofy, awkward, giggly and all! 

Locations:
Highland Park / Rochester NY
Neighborhood of the Arts / Rochester NY
Village Gate / Rochester NY
George Eastman House & gardens / Rochester NY