Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Westbrooks.
Hi Jasmine, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m Jasmine Westbrooks, owner and operator of Her Gallery Co Photography. Growing up, I always had a camera and was the photographer and videographer for my family.
I fell in love with being able to capture major milestones and the times of laughter and love I’ve experienced with my family.
My love grew even more when I discovered I could do it for others. This is when Her Gallery Co. was born: A place that serves families and individuals by capturing memories so they last forever.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being a college student and owning a business does not come easy. The biggest challenge is finding a balance where I’m in good academic standing while properly managing my business. Initially, I would put so much pressure on myself to do everything correctly that I didn’t do anything because of the fear of failure.
However, I’ve been taught that my “failures” are an opportunity to keep growing. My second struggle was embracing boldness in leadership. This struggle surprised me because I was the firstborn, so I was always put in charge. However, when it came to leading some of my clients with their poses, I struggled due to a fear of being perceived as “Mean,” which made me very quiet and shy.
I overcame these struggles by remembering to be patient with myself as I’m still growing into adulthood and being very strategic with scheduling to stay on top of my assignments or appointments. Also, don’t overthink, and have fun with my clients!
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My favorite types of shoots right now are the graduation and event shoots, but surprisingly, the portrait shoots are my current top favorite! I like the challenge of figuring out what lighting works for my client and the excitement of getting the set just right!
Portrait photography allows me to be more creative with the pictures, whether that’s deciding what colors the client wants to use, the position of the camera, or the location to shoot at. I also love that portrait photography allows for me to really connect with my clients I think it’s really cool to see the different types of creativity throughout my clients.
In my journey as a business owner, I’m most proud of myself for maintaining a good perspective even when times get hard. I’m a dreamer, but one thing I refuse to allow to happen is to die with these dreams. I want to be to live and share my dream with others.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
My grandpa Larry Westbrook, Sr. told me that the most expensive place in the world is the gravesite.
I was very confused when he told me this, but he continued by saying, “Most people die with their dreams or innovations that had the potential to change the world.”
This stuck with me, and I decided that with anything I desire to do, I should just try because the worst that can happen is it not working out. At least you walk away knowing that you’ve tried.
Pricing:
- Graduation Shoots: 2 Locations, 2 Outfits, 10 Edited photos. $200
- Event Photography $25/hr
- Professional Headshots: 1hr photo session, One outfit, Basic retouching (blemish removal, color correction) 5 high-resolution digital images $150
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hergalleryco_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hergallerycophotography
