Meet Jackie Riggs | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackie Riggs and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jackie, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
Just how expensive and time consuming it is to run it! I think many people think photography is just showing up to a session and clicking a button. It’s easy to think that when you can go to Best Buy today, buy a camera for around $500 or less and go home and start a Facebook photography page. I’ve been a photographer for 10 years and have invested thousands into equipment, education, etc. I can’t charge next to nothing if I want to stay in business because I have bills and taxes to pay. I also can’t deliver photos the next day and deliver the quality I’m known for. I hand edit every single photo I deliver. That takes time and skill. Anyone can pick up a camera and take a photo. A photographer can pick up that camera and use their skill, training and talent and make it art.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a senior photographer, entering my 11th year in the business. Building honest relationships with my clients has led to my success. Every client who steps in front of my camera is loved and valued. I still keep in contact with many of them, even though it’s been YEARS since I shot their senior portraits! It hasn’t been easy though. I’m a full time educator, a wife, and a mother. At one point, I was a grad school student as well! It takes being able to set limits, say no, understand what is most important and manage my time. My time is valuable and so much of it is already spent at my full time job. If I’m taking any more time away from my family, it must be beneficial to them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d have to split it between Lake Jackson and Houston! We’d definitely visit the beach and eat at some of my favorite restaurants in LJ- Poly Pop, Growlers, The Fill Station. In Houston, I love going to find Dim Sum! Discovery Green is such a fun place to hang out and I love shopping at the Galleria!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband and my children support me in everything! From recommending me to people to coming with me to sessions to help out, they’re always there. I also wouldn’t be successful without my friends and family. They’ve given me advice, help when I needed it and supported me every step of the way.

Website: www.jackiesuephotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jackiesuephoto
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jackiesueriggs
Facebook: www.facebook.com/jackiesuephotography