A One-One Interview with Jessica Crespo,
Photographer Extraordinaire at Je Revele
When you look through the lens of your camera, is what you see different than what one might see from normal view?
While I feel like I can identify with most of my clients, I connect often with women who are mothers and wives. I can really relate to them. Sometimes when you become a wife or a mother you feel like you have become someone else- not the cute self you used to be. Being the subject of a photo shoot allows a woman to reclaim herself in a way she may have forgotten who she was and is.
If you could go back and change something related to your education or your life as a student what would you change or what would you do differently?
I think the biggest evolution for me has been that I have transformed from a shy, “little mouse” conservative person into an edgy outgoing, more self-confident and self assured person.
What kind of photography do you do? Do you enjoy it? Why or why not?
I enjoy doing weddings and boudoir photography. I feel as though I have developed a “super power” of empathy and intuition. Having experienced these themes in my own life, my intuition is keenly on-point. I feel a strong connection to my clients during these shoots.
What are the pros and cons of being a photographer? Please be specific.
Being a photographer is very empowering. I have the opportunity to bring so much joy to people. I love being an entrepreneur and taking control of my own destiny. I get to meet lots of interesting people and see wonderful aspects of life. If there are cons, I suppose it’s what people do not realize. Photography isn’t only glamorous. There is a lot of editing, billing and paperwork involved.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you want to be? Why?
I used to think I wanted to be a teacher or a lawyer. Now I know I’d love to be a travel blogger! I’d be able to travel the world, enjoy the cultures and wines of each region and capture my experiences in photographs and in words.
What would you say is most important: good knowledge or good equipment?
It’s not the camera that takes the photograph. Capturing a look requires more than just technique. I like to think that I take photos with my heart.
If you could work alongside of any photographer, who would it be?
I feel privileged to work with Natalie Licini, owner and head photographer at Je Revele. She is a fabulous mentor, full of humility, kindness and patience. And she has a sharp eye!
I also follow and admire the work of Jerry Ghionis, a renowned photographer, based out of Australia. He is known as one of the top 5 wedding photographers in the world. His work is an inspiration to me.
What genre of photography do you least like and why?
I am not a big fan of traditionally posed photographs. For me, it’s like painting. A creative artist enjoys picking up a brush and allowing the brush to be a tool on the canvas. What results, hopefully, is a unique expression. Such a painter would not enjoy the kind of painting one dies when painting a room in a house. Although that kind of painting requires skill and precision, it leaves little room for creativity on the part of the painter. That’s a bit what it’s like for me. Merely positioning people for a traditional, stiff portrait pose does not always allow room for the artistic signature of the photographer. I like to capture each person’s personality, which is often seen through movements and mannerisms, not in sitting still like a statue.
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Je Revele Fine Art Photography Studio & Gallery
433 River Road | Highland Park, NJ 08904 | Studio: 732-964-3773 | Mobile: 917-886-5666
Website: www.jerevele.com | Blog: www.blog.jerevele.com
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International Award Winning Photographer
