Meet Jenny Kim | OC Photographer

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

Hi Jenny, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was driven by a combination of factors. I wanted the freedom to have creative control over my work. This meant defining my style, choosing projects, and having the flexibility to experiment and grow as a photographer.

I thought it was an opportunity to build something of my own and create a brand that reflects my values and vision. I aimed to provide a personalized and exceptional photography experience for my clients, and starting my own business allowed me to achieve that.

Most importantly, starting my own business allowed me to pursue my passion while being a full-time mom to my son. It also offered the potential for financial independence and the ability to have a direct impact on my own success. I could set my rates, determine my income, and have opportunities for growth and expansion. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I absolutely adore capturing couples in a way that truly resembles the enchanting and captivating essence of a cinematic film. However, my primary and utmost dedication lies in the art of capturing those genuine and heartfelt moments through candid photography, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and intimacy to my couple’s precious memories. To prepare for the photoshoot, I schedule a call with the clients to get to know them better. I also gather a collection of inspiration pictures and guide them with posing, which helps them feel comfortable during the shoot. It’s natural to feel awkward in front of the camera, so this approach is crucial. Many of my clients express how much fun they had. This approach allows me to capture those special moments through my camera, and I believe it distinguishes me from others. I have the honor of being a part of a wedding this June. It will be my first time photographing a wedding, which I am incredibly excited about.
I enrolled in a photography class to obtain my certificate and learn the fundamentals of lighting and camera settings. Afterwards, I had the opportunity to put my newly acquired knowledge into practice by capturing some beautiful moments of my friends, which helped me further enhance my photography skills. It was pretty frustrating at times, especially when I would compare my art with others and feel discouraged. However, through my journey, I have come to the realization that every artist has their own unique style and journey. Instead of getting discouraged, I have learned to appreciate the diversity in art and use it as an inspiration to further develop my own skills and creativity.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting LA for a week, I would take them to some of the best spots. Here’s a little itinerary:

– **Day 1**: Explore the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and visit the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. Enjoy lunch at a trendy restaurant in Hollywood and then head to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, catch a live performance at the Hollywood Bowl.
– **Day 2**: Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood, experiencing thrilling rides and exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Have lunch at one of the themed restaurants inside the park. In the evening, head to Sunset Strip for dinner and live music at renowned venues.
– **Day 3**: Take her to the best Korean spa’s in Koreatown and pamper her with body massage and facials while ordering food from the restaurant inside the spa.
– **Day 4**: Take a day trip to Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the amusement park rides and games. Walk along the Santa Monica Beach and have a picnic by the ocean. In the evening, explore the trendy shops and restaurants on Third Street Promenade.
– **Day 5**: Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Downtown LA, including the Arts District and Little Tokyo. Visit the Broad Museum and admire contemporary art. Have lunch at a food truck or trendy restaurant in the area. In the evening, watch a concert or sports event at the Staples Center.
– **Day 6**: Visit the famous Griffith Park and hike up to the Hollywood Sign for stunning views of the city. Have a picnic lunch in the park. In the afternoon, explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the La Brea Tar Pits. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with a view at one of the rooftop restaurants in downtown.
– **Day 7**: Take a day trip to Malibu and relax on the beautiful beaches. Stop by a winery and have lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean. In the evening, enjoy a sunset hike at Point Dume State Beach.

Throughout the week, we would also explore local cafes, try different cuisines, and visit hidden gems recommended by locals. It would be a perfect mix of exploring the city, enjoying the beach, experiencing the local culture, and indulging in delicious food and drinks.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My partner deserves most of the credit. He has played a crucial role in my life’s journey. His unwavering support and encouragement have been incredibly important in helping me navigate through the significant changes that I have experienced. Alongside my loving family and friends, who have always been there for me, their constant love and support have been a driving force that has brought me to where I am today in this beautiful journey of life.

Website: https://unscriptedphotographers.com/jennykscanon

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennykscanon/