Jesse Salter is and award-winning photographer, based in Kansas City. She focuses on motherhood portraiture and workshops. We recently asked Jesse to tell us a little more about her story and how she has grown her amazing business. You can see more of her work and learn more about how to connect with her HERE.



How long have you been in business?

Since August of 2014.



Have you always focused on motherhood photography? If not, what else did you shoot and how and when did the decision to specialize happen?

Oh no, I photographed anything and everything at the start of my journey. Over time, I grew more confident in myself and my work making it easier to say no to jobs I wasn’t passionate about. My best work has always surrounded motherhood—maternity, newborn and family sessions have my whole heart. 



What advice would you give to someone looking to specialize in motherhood photography?

Be confident and comfortable facilitating your vision. It’s your perception of their story. Obviously, directing a session is important, but make certain you are not missing the in between moments. Observation and anticipation is the secret sauce to capture THE moments. 



What’s in your camera bag?

I shoot with the Canon Mark IV. My back up body is the Canon 6D. I only use and carry the Canon 50mm f/1.2 and Sigma Art 35mm f/1.4.



What’s the most challenging part of your job?

Finding a work/life balance. However, every year becomes easier to manage than the last. I’m learning to work smarter not harder but it’s taken me 4 or 5 years. I block off dates on my calendar and schedule around my kids school times and extra activities. I’m currently off for two weeks to spend time with my girls and prepare for my next workshop. I’m also taking all of December off this year which will be a first. 



How did you get started in workshops? What’s next for you there?

It was a repeat request and I finally gave into when a close friend/fellow photographer offered to host the first one with me. It was such a rewarding experience… how can one stop? My goal is to do three workshops each year. I plan to host two close to home (Kansas City) and one at a destination location. 



How do you spend your free time?

If I’m not on an adventure with my girls you’ll find me planning my next date night with my husband or wine night with my girlfriends. 



What’s your big business goal for 2020?

More online education and one-on-one mentoring. 



What are three random things about you that people might love to know?

I married my high school sweetheart. We actually married twice. Once when I was 19 then again when I was 26. Growing up I dreamed of being a professional singer. I sang in many weddings and auditioned for several television shows including American Idol, X-Factor and Making the Band. Although I teach workshops I actually hate public speaking. I’d rather sing or shoot a session than speak. 



How has Iris helped you with your business?

Iris has given me back valuable time. I’m now able to focus on what’s most important to me… time with my family. Iris is the secret to management as a photography business owner. I wish I would have realized it sooner. It exceeds all of my expectations and I could not be happier.



Where can we find more of your work?

My website: www.jessesalter.photography/ | My Instagram: @jessesalterphotography | My Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessesalterphotography/ | My Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jessesalter/