We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Flowers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jordan, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I grew up knowing the importance of a photo. When I was younger, my grandma passed away and all I was left with were my memories and my photos of her. I have held those photos near and dear to my heart still after all of these years. When I decided to become a photographer, I did it because I wanted others to have photos to hold on to of their loved ones. I love being able to capture the love between a mother and daughter, a silly moment frozen in time between siblings, a big bear hug from a dad to his only son, kisses with Grammy and Grandpa…. Photography to me is more then just an image, it is an emotion and a memory that will be cherished for years and years to come.
What should our readers know about your business?
Last spring I decided to quit my full time job and jump head first into being a full time photographer instead. It has been a huge change going from having a stable monthly paycheck to not having one, but it has been so rewarding. I have poured blood, sweat and tears into making my business successful and while not every thing has gone as planned, I am very happy where I am at in my business right now. I am 6 months into being full time after doing this for 4 years part time and I think these last 6 months have been the most successful for me.
The biggest lesson I have had to learn was that not everyone is going to be a client for me. I am a people pleaser and want to help people out but that is also when you come across people who will take advantage of you. I have had to learn to stick to my pricing and not budge too much because once you budge an inch they will try and take more. I have to remind myself that I am worth every penny and I deserve to make an income just like anyone else. This is my full time job now and not just a fun hobby.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My photography bestie, Stacy Michael, actually visited Fort Worth for the first time in September from Chicago, so I was able to take her around and show her the city I love. We started the day off at Joe T’s in the Stockyards and I showed her around the cattle and all the fun places in the Stockyards that I do photo sessions at. That evening we went out to Grapevine Lake and I was able to show her my favorite spot to watch the most gorgeous Texas sunset! Of course we had to stop and eat at Whataburger since it was her first time in Texas… and she LOVED it!! I wish we had more time to travel to Waco and visit Chip and Joanna at Magnolia and have one of their amazing cupcakes, but sadly we ran out of time.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a shoutout to my husband (Casey) and my 3 boys (Caleb, Dax and Pecos – they are why my business is called CDP Photography) for allowing me to do something I love and enjoy! I also have to give a shoutout to Victoria and Michelle from Salty Sailor Presets (https://saltysailorpresets.com) for being the best mentors I have ever had and helping me set up my business, teaching me how to edit and just pouring into me like they have. Lastly, I would like to think my photographer besties that are always there for me when I have a freak out or need to vent… Katie Hicks (KT Photography), Ashley Sharp (Ashley Sharp Photography) and my Photography Bestie Stacy Michael (Stacy Rae Photography).
I am noting without all of you and I appreciate you all more then words can say!
Website: https://cdpphototexas.mypixieset.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/cdp_phototexas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CDPPhotoTexas
Image Credits
Headshot – KT Photography Other images – CDP Photography