Daily Inspiration: Meet Janna Pickett

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janna Pickett.

Hi Janna, 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.
As a developmental psychology Ph.D. student at Arizona State University, I understand the life-changing power of education, and I firmly believe that every person deserves a safe place to learn. Smiles for Schools Photography began when I was a first-year student in college. I had taken digital photography classes throughout high school and found myself spending more and more time taking pictures of friends and family and learning new editing techniques. As I learned more about child development, I realized that my creative escape could be a productive way to give back. I now offer photography sessions and donate 100% of the money to Pencils of Promise – an organization that builds schools supports teachers, and provides safe access to drinking water in Ghana, Guatemala, and Laos. I have watched my organization grow over the years. I have been so impressed by the support I have received from the community. I think my clients smile a little wider, knowing they are helping to make a difference for many.

Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
If you create art, whether that be through photography, drawing, painting, sculpting, dancing, writing, etc., you know that sharing your art can be a very vulnerable experience. Everyone will have opinions about what is best, so wearing your art on your sleeve can be scary. It has taken some time for me to develop a photography style that I am proud of and feel confident in saying, “I am a photographer.” Ultimately, I learned that the best part of the experience is capturing the unique beauty of human and earthly nature, so I try to focus on that. Running a nonprofit organization can also be difficult because you need to establish boundaries for your time. I want to help as many people as possible, but I also have to understand what’s realistic on top of my graduate school schedule. I have found that people are accommodating to my schedule, and there have only been a few stressed-out overnighters.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My photography focuses on capturing natural beauty, particularly for people who want to document milestones and help give back to other families. I love all my photography sessions, but I particularly love working with young kids because I also study child development! I know all the tricks to get your kiddos to giggle for the camera.

Risk-taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I attribute most of my life’s successes to “going for it,” even though I felt unqualified. When I started my photography organization, I had barely any training, minimal photography equipment, and no clue how to run social media accounts. Looking back, I laugh at the pictures I used to think was great, but I am so proud of myself for just trying. I still make plenty of mistakes, so I will keep trying. You have unique talents and can make a difference, so if you’re feeling scared to start, go for it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @smilesforschools.photography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smilesforschools

Image Credits
All images are my images 🙂