Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacob Jesionek.
Hi Jacob, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I first picked up a camera during college when a good friend approached me about documenting some trips we had coming up. From that point on, I was hooked. My camera follows me everywhere I go, snapping photos of wildlife and scenic views, or filming hiking and fishing expeditions. All of the things that I capture find a home on my YouTube channel, Life Outdoors. This is where I really began figuring out my style behind a lens and having fun with photography and videography. After some time behind the lens, I realized that I had the opportunity to use this camera as a tool and began my side hustle, Life Outdoors Photography. My goal with this was simple, provide quality photography at entry level pricing. Because I still have a full time position working in habitat restoration, I am able to depend on that job as my main source of income and keep photography as a passion project. This allows me to keep photography prices reasonable for clients that are in Oregon and Washington who would love professional photos but can’t afford full time photographer invoices. While the majority of my shoots are family and couples photography, my favorite shoots are the surprise proposals. These shoots give me the chance to use some of my wildlife photography skills out in the field, sneaking around and making sure I capture a life memory for the lucky couple.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like I said before, photography has always been a passion project for me. Keeping a full time job that is separate from what you really love to do allows you to avoid burnout and the stress of depending on photography to pay the bills. Because of this, I have had a smooth road in the industry and have been able to enjoy countless photography sessions with clients along the way. The only real struggle is trying to keep myself from constantly upgrading gear.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Life Outdoors Photography is my budget friendly side hustle where I provide folks with quality photos at a reasonable price in both Oregon and Washington. I specialize in family, couple, and surprise proposal shoots but also have dabbled in real estate photography. I am a licensed drone pilot with a quality drone and top notch flying capabilities, able to capture home and property imagery from above that is sure to boost your listings. I have worked with many people in the PNW and you can find glowing reviews for Life Outdoors Photography on my Google Maps page.
What are your plans for the future?
Moving into the future, I would love to continue picking up clients here and there, making sure I never overwork myself and continue to be passionate about photography. As someone who recently became a licensed drone pilot, I would love to do more aerial work in the real estate business as I am good behind the sticks and really enjoy flying. Beyond that, I am just happy to share my photography with people that are interested in getting their pictures taken.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lifeoutdoorsphoto.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/lifeoutdoors
