What is Documentary Photography? How is it different than Lifestyle Photography?

Documentary photography is all about telling the story of your life, the highs, the lows and the in-between. It's taking the mundane and making it beautiful. There are no directions, no posing- it is just your real life These sessions document the important stuff in your world that you want to remember. The childhood you will help your children to recall. Documentary photography chronicles day to day life as well as significant and historical events. These are images that tell a story. It preserves those everyday moments for all time.

What can I expect when you come?

YOU: proceed with your normal routine, as if there is no one there with a camera.
ME: takes photographs of your normal routine.
That's it...
Seriously

But our lives are boring.

First of all you might think your life is boring but there is beauty in the mundane. Secondly, don't worry, your session can be as active or as inactive as you want. Documentary sessions are about preserving your life, just as it is, not as someone you are not! Maybe you have little one and want to always remember what bath time looks like at your house, dance class, grocery shopping, sports practice, family meals or playing outside. These are all part of what your life is in the here and now.

But my house is a mess!

I shoot in my home all the time. It's dark and there is always stuff everywhere. It has given me lots of practice with shooting around the mess and the clutter to make sure that is not highlighted in an image. On the flip side of that, all that stuff shows your life- your kids toys all over the floor, the dirty clothes they take off but never quite make it to the laundry basket, the backpack they always drop off as soon as they hit the house from school. Those are the details of your story.

Do I need to go shopping for new clothes first?

Nope! I mean you can if you really want to use this as an excuse to buy new clothes but I always recommend wearing clothes that make you feel good, that you love, that make you happy. That goes from mom through to the whole family. I do recommend staying away from branded clothes (Nike, characters, etc), but feel free to go with fun sayings, patterns, your sweatpants or let the kids run around in their underwear.

What is the best location for our session?

The best location is a place that has some meaning to you in some way, a place that will bring back fond memories. Your home is a great place to start, your neighborhood, places you frequent often as a family (even Walmart can be a fun family session!). Sessions can always be more than one location, so we can get those pretty images of you and your family hiking in the woods along with the deeply meaningful images of your home. No, you do not have to wait until the golden hour to have a session! That is another great thing about documentary sessions. They are so flexible to your needs and your schedule! We can book your session to happen during anytime of the day. Indoors or out.

What are your session packages?

I offer full day, half day, and hourly, Each package is completely customized for your family. Check out the storytelling sessions page for more info.

Where are you located? Will you travel to me?

I’m located in Liberty NY which is in Sullivan County. I currently serve the Catskill and Hudson Valley region. Travel up to 1 hour is included in the session fee. However, I am happy to travel to provide you with a session outside of my service area.

Still have questions?

Feel free to contact me! I’m happy to answer all the things!

Your Story

Thank you for your interest in my services. My sessions are documentary in approach and are meant to capture your family's everyday life. Think about your families planned or regular daily activities  that you want documented.  These sessions are to be low stress, fun and easy on your part.  I am there to photograph your genuine everyday life which includes the hugs, snuggles, arguments, temper tantrums, discipline,  jokes, adventures and everything else in between. You just have to be yourselves and go about your daily routine. 

As we prepare for your session, I ask that you not go out of your way in terms of cleaning your house, buying new outfits, or planning extravagant activities. We will embrace your beautiful real life and tell your story.

I will  be completely hands off in terms of direction as you experience a day in the life with your family.

I offer full day, half day and hourly sessions. Feel free to ask about customizing any package.

All edited digital images and a shareable video slideshow is included in all sessions.

Day in the Life Storytelling Sessions

FULL DAY

It's the hardest and most rewarding job to be a parent, and these images are the perfect way to be reminded of how much chaos and love is in your home. The day begins before your children wake up and I do not stop shooting until they fall asleep, typically 12-15 hours.

I promise my camera becomes invisible quickly. You can choose what type type of day you would like for me to photograph. It could be a special family event, or a trip to the grocery store or ,simply carry on with your regular routine and activities that you like to do as a family. The options are endless. Pricing starts at $1,200

HALF DAY

During this time, you’ll carry on with your regular routine and 3-4 activities that you like to do as a family. This could be anything from playing with bubbles in the yard, taking a dip in the pool, shopping, errands, making a meal together, or heading to your favorite neighborhood spot - nothing out of the ordinary. These sessions conclude after 5-7 hours. Pricing starts at $850

HOURLY

Love the style, but only looking for some something more basic? We can still capture the fun and laughter of your family on a tighter timeline! Hourly sessions area great way to document moments of an activity or part of the day that you find important. Choose a favorite family activity where everyone can participate. As a mom myself, I know how special capturing everyday interactions with my children are. Pricing starts at $400

There is a $200 non refundable retainer that is due upon booking. This is then applied towards your session fee.

Hi! I'm Jena Love. I am a mom, wife, artist and high school art teacher in Sullivan County, NY.  Taking pictures has become my favorite medium for expression as it allows me to capture unexpected, funny, important moments with my family as well as connecting with amazing families within my community. I look forward to meeting yours!

When not taking pictures or teaching art, I can be found with my family: husband Aaron, 5 year old daughter Indigo, and 2 year old son Rogue. I also volunteer with a local non-profit organization, New York Babywearing, where I teach caregivers how to safely and comfortably wear baby carriers. 

I can't wait to photograph your family in an authentic way. I want to give you images that will never go out of style, make you feel like the amazing parent you are, and show how much your kids adore you.