Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Mims.
Hi Jessica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Im sure this will ruffle some feathers but…here it goes: I used to be a bartender making great money and spending it on things I definitely didn’t need. One of those things happened to be a camera I bought on a whim. Then one day, the bar I worked at got slated to be bulldozed to make way for condos (because it’s Austin, of course it did). I thought it might make for an interesting photo series. So I dusted off the camera and showed up to the demolition site. As fate would have it, the CEO of the demolition company was on site and asked, “You get any good pictures? I’ll pay you for them.” Without missing a beat, I lied and said, “Actually, I’m an architectural photographer.” (I was not.)
But he believed me, and started paying me that week. And somehow I was good at it.. One of my photos ended up getting featured in The New York Times, and after that magazines started publishing my work. So basically, I owe my career to a bulldozer, a fib, and a really great camera impulse buy.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Surprisingly, yes! I’ve been lucky to work with the most incredible clients, many of whom become friends, and I’ve had the privilege of documenting their lives as they grow and evolve. On the flip side, when I’ve stepped into more journalistic work—like photographing underground gambling rings or covering protests, things have definitely gotten intense. But honestly, the adrenaline, the access, and the powerful stories that come out of those moments? Always worth it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in editorial-style work that blends fine art with real life, whether that’s architectural photography, portraits, or creative campaigns. I’m known for capturing honest, striking images with a strong sense of place and personality.
I’m most proud of the trust I’ve built with my clients, many of whom I’ve photographed through multiple seasons of life. What sets me apart is my ability to make people feel comfortable while still pushing creative boundaries. I bring a calm, collaborative energy to every shoot… and I’m not afraid to climb on something slightly questionable to get the shot.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I see photography evolving in two big ways: becoming even more intentional and more immersive. I think people are craving images that feel real, emotional, and artful, not just polished content. So there’s going to be an even bigger shift toward storytelling over perfection, which is right in my wheelhouse. I plan to keep saying yes to weird, beautiful and dangerous projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.bellsandwhistlesproductions.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellsandwhistlesatx
Image Credits
All photos by Jessica Mims with Bells and Whistles Productions
