Faith, Focus, and a Good Beat: Why I Do What I Do

If you’ve been following along on my Facebook page, you’ve probably picked up on three things I care deeply about: photography, music, and Jesus. I know, it’s not exactly a clean niche...and yes, I’ve had plenty of people tell me I should “pick a lane.” But the truth is, I am the lane.

This is just who I am.

Jesus is the center of my life. Music is in my bones. And photography is how I process the world and preserve the beauty in it. I can’t separate those parts of me, and I’m not trying to anymore. If anything, I’m learning to embrace how they all work together, not just in my business, but in my everyday life.

1. Jesus First, Always

Faith isn’t just a Sunday thing for me, it’s the reason I show up the way I do in everything else. Jesus changed my life, plain and simple. His grace, His mercy, His calling... that’s what keeps me grounded when life gets chaotic (and trust me, it does). It’s also what gives me the passion to serve, to create, and to encourage others.

I know church can be complicated. I’ve seen the good, the messy, and everything in between. But I also believe in the beauty of the body of Christ ( in community, in gathering, in growing together) That’s why you’ll see me posting hard questions, wrestling with real stuff, and pointing back to the hope I’ve found in Him.

2. Photography with Heart

I started photography because I wanted to freeze moments. Not just the perfect ones, but the real ones the belly laughs and the sweaty concert nights. Over time, it became more than a hobby. It became a way to tell people’s stories...especially for those who might not have access to fancy shoots or have big budgets.

I’ve got a soft spot for musicians, too. Local artists pouring their hearts into music deserve photos that capture their passion- without breaking the bank. Whether it's a family session, senior portraits, or a band playing in a local bar, I want people to feel seen, valued, and proud of their story.

3. Music in My Bones

Music is one of my love languages. Always has been. I grew up surrounded by it, I’m married to it (literally, my husband is an amazing musician), and it’s been a steady soundtrack through every season of my life.

Whether I’m at a worship night or shooting a blues band in a bar, there’s just something special about music. It speaks when words fall short. That’s why it shows up in my photos, my posts, and my playlists.

So yeah, I may not have a “perfectly curated niche,” but I have a purpose. And it’s this: to reflect truth, capture beauty, and hold space for the messy, meaningful moments in life.

Thanks for being here... however you found me, I’m glad you did.

– Jessica
JW Photography