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

Hi Janae, what principle do you value most?
What value or principle matters most to you? Why?

If you envision it, create it. You’ll be surprised of what you can accomplish, which allows for multiple learning opportunities.
When I envisioned and idea or concept I knew I had to create it. I faced many challenges trying to construct the perfect project. I overcame each one using quick thinking and decision making to achieve the final image(s). Seeing the end result truly leaves me in shock. I can only think to myself it started with a simple idea in my head and ended with a beautiful masterpiece. I push myself and watch how much effort I’d put into each picture. Not a single shot taken carelessly.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I believe I set myself apart by making sure each client and image has a purpose in showcasing God’s greatest creation, people. I look at everyone as a work of art, same creator just different styles and purposes in life.

I’m most proud of myself first of all because I kept going even when things got tough. I’m excited to see where my business goes in the future. I’ve built up a name for myself and it continues to be uplifted by my supporters.

I got to this point in photography by practicing any chance I got. I allowed myself to make mistakes but also correct and learn from them. I had the courage to ask questions and look for answers and I highly encourage others to do the same, seek advice from those around you. In addition to all those things, I had the opportunity of having an internship and it allowed people to take a chance on me and trust me with taking their pictures. It was far from easy and I’m glad it wasn’t because I was being educated on many things. Overcoming things like mental illness, finances, and having little to no creative friends in the beginning. I studied social media and watched the algorithm as influencers above me got views, likes, repost and even interviews. I knew I had to put myself out there and not just wait for something to happen. I want my images and business to be showcased and recognized by people all over the world.

A huge lesson I learned was that not everyone likes the same things, I was not going to please everybody with my pictures. I know now to just create and be my authentic self. My advice to any new or established photographers is, to be yourself, create images and project YOU like. If you’re happy with result, then that’s all that matters.

When starting Janae’s Photography I had to rebrand myself several times. I’ve spent years and I still am trying to discover who I am as a business owner. Photography to me is way more than just clicking one button it’s honoring each client and model with my time and talent keeping their images natural but personal to them. I was gifted many things, including equipment and opportunities. My first camera, a Nikon D80 was a gift after my baptism my second camera, a canon T3i was gifted by a family friend after he saw my images from a dance recital from Mansfield Dance Academy. At this recital I worked with a family business from a former church. Not only that, I was able to be a part of a church’s creative/media team, which led into an internship opportunity with former friends. I started little by little learning and teaching others as Macie Torres once taught me. However, I didn’t have other creative friends in the beginning which led me feeling discouraged, so I took a small break from producing work and taking clients. I dealt with depressive episodes and anxiety, but I knew I didn’t want to stay in that mindset. Over time I began to pick up my camera and taught myself more advanced things playing with each setting to get different a effect and outcome. After a while I began opening my availability and constructing ideas for future photo shoots. I was going to high school events and games for the extra practice but also content for my schools yearbook. My junior year rolled around and I became more active on Instagram, I also started TikTok my senior year. This challenged me to create content anywhere and to make something out of nothing. As my photography business continues to grow I will teach and direct others on the right path so they can have a chance of being successful like I am. After being in the arts field, I knew wasn’t just a photographer, but a creative director.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in North Texas is quite enjoyable with all the spots I go to most. Some of my favorite restaurants like Picchi Pacchi in Fort Worth, Main Street tacos or Suzushii Sushi and Grill in Mansfield, and even Joe’s Pizza and Pasta & Mercury Chophouse in Arlington. Favorite snack places would be Tropical Smoothie Cafe, in Mansfield or Andy’s Frozen Custard in Arlington. When going out with friends, I typically in enjoying walking around Downtown Mansfield, Texas Live in Arlington, The Parks mall, or Top Golf in Fort Worth. Even though I’m more of a homebody when it comes to hanging out, I’d love to explore more DFW soon!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shoutout Macie Torres, Ms. Best, my clients, models and all my supporters. I remember when I wanted to try out photography, Macie was the one to teach me the in’s and out’s of it all. I learned all the basic functions and techniques all on her camera. Throughout the years she has encouraged me to chase my dreams and keep creating content. Anytime I need advice I go straight to her knowing she will guide me to best of her ability. Still to this day she continues to uplift and cheer on my name and business. Ms. Best has been my teacher for three years now, all the way from being in photojournalism to being the head editor of the schools yearbook committee. She has seen my potential grow continuously over the years. Ms. Best has been an amazing and influential woman in my life. Lastly but the most importantly, I want to thank my clients, supporters/followers and friends. I want to thank them for liking all my content and sharing it with their mutuals. Since starting my business I’ve read all the DM’s and text messages with kind, uplifting words towards my business so thank you.

Instagram: @janaesphotography__

Image Credits
Macie Torres for my personal portraits. Instagram @macieelizaphotos

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.