Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Reyes.
Hi Jessica, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began my photography journey over 20 years ago at a well-known children’s photography studio. That early experience gave me a strong foundation not only in photography but also in client experience, sales, and the importance of delivering high-quality portrait products. After working with several companies over the years, I took everything I had learned and built my own photography business.
I’m a Texas native, and although my husband’s military career allowed us to live and photograph in many beautiful locations, returning to Texas has been incredibly meaningful. Photographing in different places and cultures shaped my perspective and strengthened my ability to connect with clients from all walks of life. Now that my husband is retired, we’re thrilled to be back home and plan to stay.
Today, I specialize in families, extended families, seniors, and college graduates. I’ve remained successful in a competitive industry by continuously learning, investing in mentoring, and surrounding myself with other professionals in the photography industry. I’m not afraid to step outside my comfort zone, because growth, both creatively and personally, has always been at the heart of my journey.
Photography is an ever-evolving industry, and that’s what I love most about it. Being able to capture meaningful milestones and create timeless portraits for my clients is truly an honor.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. A few years ago, my husband and I were stationed in a small Texas town called Copperas Cove, where we truly believed we would settle down long-term. I opened a studio there and was finally gaining real traction. My business was growing, my client base was building, and things felt like they were falling into place.
Like so many small businesses, COVID brought unexpected setbacks, but I pushed through and kept going. Just as things were starting to look promising again, my husband received new military orders, and we had to relocate to Fort Knox, Kentucky. There was no way around it. We packed up and moved for two years.
Closing my studio and starting over was heartbreaking. After pouring so much into building a business, the thought of beginning again from scratch was overwhelming. I actually took a step back and, for a moment, questioned whether I wanted to start again at all. Starting over is hard, emotionally and professionally.
Ultimately, that pause gave me clarity. While the experience in Kentucky was unique and meaningful in its own way, it reminded me how much I truly love what I do. Now, here I am starting again, wiser, more confident, and more intentional than before. There are always hurdles, but I’ve learned from past mistakes, grown through the challenges, and I can honestly say I’m back better than ever and loving the journey all over again
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I create timeless, intentional portraits that celebrate meaningful milestones. I specialize in families, extended families, seniors, and college graduates, with a style that is guided and polished while still capturing genuine connection.
I’m known as a full-service photographer who offers more than digital images. I guide clients from planning their session through selecting heirloom products like wall art, albums, and memory boxes, ensuring their portraits are enjoyed every day, not just stored away.
What I’m most proud of is the experience I provide. My background in retail photography, combined with ongoing mentoring and education, allows me to serve my clients at a high level. What sets me apart is my intention, attention to detail, and commitment to creating portraits that remain meaningful for years to come.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is Sundays at church. I grew up attending the same church my entire childhood, and it wasn’t just my immediate family. It was my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, too. We served together, sat together, and truly grew up together there.
After church, it was always a party of 17 heading to a nearby brunch spot. Those Sundays were loud, joyful, and full of connection. I’m very much old-school Austin. We regularly went to places like Fran’s and Amaya’s Tacos. If you know, you know. Those moments of togetherness are something I still carry with me today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jessiereyesphotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessiereyesphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/jessiereyesphotography
