Meet Jamie Szymczuk

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Szymczuk.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I have been interested in photography since about freshman year of high school. I was always up in people’s faces with my little point and shoot film camera. Recognizing this my mother saved up and bought me my first real camera, interchangeable lenses and all. I thought it was the coolest thing ever (I still have it too). From then on, I took pictures of everything and everyone. Everything was manual and I had a lot of wasted film but it was worth it, I found something that I was passionate about. Of course, after high school life took me in another direction and I worked, went to cosmetology school and `went to college, all of which steered me away from photography. I then got married and not one of my wedding pictures of my husband and I were in focus.

That is what inspired me to get back into it. I bought a nice camera and then hit up all my friends and family to let me practice on them. An addiction was born for me. I could not get enough, having lost all of the beautiful memories of my wedding really made me realize how precious those fleeting moments are, especially on such an important day. I want to be that person to document these moments for you because I know first-hand what it is like to not have them, I have documented everything from weddings, to births and I love it all. Since having my baby girl 8 months ago made me realize how important all the pictures I have taken of our family have been and will be. I want these memories for her. I can’t wait until she is older and can look back on her parents and see them from teenagers in love to having her. I feel like my job is that much more important now because these aren’t just picturing they are her legacy and history. Everyone should have their most important days documented for loved ones.

Please tell us about your art.
I am a photographer located in the east valley however, I serve the entire Phoenix Valley as well as travel. Although I love all forms of photography weddings are near and dear to my heart due to not having those memories for myself, at least not the memories in focus. I get so invested in my client’s weddings and portraits that I shoot. I love to hear about how the couple met, what the wedding dress looks like and even the first dance song. I can’t help but talk to my high school seniors about plans after they graduate, and I love to hear the names picked out and nursery decorations from my maternity clients A lot of my clients actually become friends after because I like to get to know them and hear their story. I think it truly helps when it comes to documenting their life’s milestones. I am able to fully represent/capture who they are because we built such a personal connection. I love creating rich and colorful images that evoke tons of emotion and love. I not only want my clients to understand the importance of documenting these memories, but also have fun doing so!

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
One of the biggest challenges photographers and other artists face is comparing our work to others. It is easy to see some of the bigger names out there and want to emulate their work. But when it comes down to it, art is your own. It is so important to be unique and true to yourself. We, as artists, should embrace the style that we love no matter what. Art is such a unique and beautiful thing because of each artists differences and creativity.

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Small businesses thrive on word of mouth so telling friends and family about me is the best way to support my work. Social media is also huge, and liking and sharing my images is especially helpful. I am so grateful for both my clients and friends who have supported me over the years. Make sure to check out my Facebook and Instagram to keep up with the latest from me!

Contact Info:

• Website: rowantreephotos.com
• Phone: 4806840311
• Email: rowantreephotos@gmail.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/rowantreephoto
• Facebook: facebook.com/rowantreephoto

Image Credit:
Photo of myself taken by: Haylee Bridges of Comet Photos
All other photos taken by myself: Rowan Tree Photography

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