We recently had the chance to connect with Jess Okunola and have shared our conversation below.
Jess, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What is a normal day like for you right now?
Right now, we are nearing the end of summer and I’m preparing for the school year ahead (aside from photography, I teach kindergarten full time)! A typical day would be finding some adventure with my kids; possibly pool, splash pad, library, ice cream, coming home to rest while mom tackles the to-dos or any editing I may have left. If I have a session to shoot, it’s usually in the evening, so I’m either out at a session while my husband takes on the nighttime routine, or we are at home hanging as a family!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Jess Okunola, and I started my photography business a little over 6 years ago! I’m based out of Belleville, IL but shoot mostly in the St. Louis area! Jess Okunola Photography handles lots of different types of sessions ranging from newborn, senior, family, and even a wedding here and there. I’d say I photograph mostly families, however, and my approach differs a bit from simply capturing the rigid “smile for the camera” shots. Being a kindergarten teacher with two young kids of my own, I love the element of play in a family photo shoot. I love capturing the giggles, the fun, and all the little moments of connection in between. I feel confident with your shy kiddos, and I know by the end of the shoot, they’ll be having lots of fun. I want my sessions to be an experience to look forward to, not something to check off your to-do list.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I think the relationship I have with my parents has shaped me most. I’m lucky to have grown up with two parents who always believed in me, always supported & celebrated me, and never made feel like I needed to change anything about myself. Of course throughout different phases of life you come across some self-doubt, but being near them & being able to connect with them always brings me back to myself. They allow me to remember what is most important and allow me to feel that confidence in who I am and what I bring to the table.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would probably tell my younger self that worrying about what others may be thinking about you is a waste of your precious time. I’d tell her that she has a good heart & wonderful intentions for the world, and she doesn’t need the approval of others to go after what she wants.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Most definitely! I’m pretty goofy & typically trying to squeeze a joke in where I can. I try not to let much bother me and am able to roll with the punches pretty well. I’d say my closest friends would see me as laid-back and silly, and I’d also bet a stranger would say the same after meeting me. I think I bring that same energy to each photoshoot!
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Since my kids were born, I’ve had this deep sense of knowing that I am living ‘the good ol’ days’. Lots of days with two small kids & the endless responsibilities of life can be overwhelming, but even in that, I’m still clinging to all this beautiful chaos. I look at my kids playing on the beach, making each other snort with belly laughs at dinner, or falling asleep curled up on the couch and I know there is nothing better in the world. You won’t have to tell me the dishes can wait. I’m the first to ditch the housework for a walk to the park. I think that’s something I try to bring to each family photo session. Time passes us by so quickly, so being able to have little moments frozen for you is a gift.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jessokunolaphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessokunolaphoto/
Image Credits
Jess Okunola Photography
