StoryTime (V2.0): HOW I BECAME A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER & Why I went MIA. Answers to YOUR Q's!

[@caninesofcork]

The Internet can be a horrible place most times. Especially in a world where everyone pretends to be perfect and flawless and create this glossy image of themselves online, I really appreciate the candor here Jess. You’re very talented and seem to have a genuine big heart. Keep doing what you do for the community out there that appreciates you for who you are and what you have to offer. Not for all the trolls who are just in a sad place themselves but haven’t realised it yet. Keep your head up and keep shooting!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much Chris, such a lovely message 🥰

[@superbrokul]

You're such a genuine person, Jess! I'm so glad I've discovered your channel. Sharing your story with so many people here on youtube must have been difficult. You're doing an amazing job!!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!!

[@HaiDHaiYena]

I agree that something like miscarriages need to be talked about more openly. Doing so not only helps those affected by a miscarriage, but also helps anyone unfortunate enough to have a miscarriage in future know that there is a support network. My wonderful wife's first miscarriage devastated her and once she opened up, her mental space improved so much. We now have a healthy baby (aka, our covid queen) that's about to turn 1 soon climbing all over our very patient English Staffordshire. I'm glad you found your happy space again and looking forward to more of your content.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Such a fab message to read, thank you so so much for commenting 💜

[@MarieNuchols]

First, I just have to say how much I respect your incredible courage. Your ability to share this story blows me away. I deeply relate to parts of it, and know I could never do what you managed to do with such grace and dignity. So thank you, from my heart. Also-and I mean this with all my heart-you are such a blessing. You are such a gifted photographer and instructor, with a phenomenally generous spirit. No matter where you go with your work, I am completely confident in your future success. Congratulations on your forthcoming marriage. He is very lucky man.

[@katyeah1213]

You instantly became one of my favourite teachers when I discovered you a few weeks ago on Instagram. Every video feels like a gift and I wanna thank you so much! ❤ Breaks my heart to hear about your struggles but also feels empowering to those (like me) who sometimes feel exactly the same. Wish you all the best! 🍀🙏And keep doing this good stuff📸🥰

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much, that really is so kind of you and I'm so glad you've found us ❤️ I feel it's right to share the struggles as well as the triumphs, we're all in this together after all. Keep doing what you're doing and I really hope you continue to find our videos helpful 😊

[@houseofherders1312]

Trolls are ridiculous. Turn off comments if it really grates you - but there’s a reason lots of them have empty KZbin channels and no social media links! You are honestly one of the best photographer you tubers, and I look forward to your videos on Fridays now and if I’m honest, you got me back into photography. Keep smashing it Jess, you are awesome 👏 ❤️

[@lindseysutherland7779]

Thanks so much for your channel and sharing this story. I cannot imagine how it feels to read comments from trolls. But NEVER stop as we are learning so much from you. Remember, those who 'can't' criticise, those who 'can' teach and learn.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Great theory there - love that!

[@javiermateo9074]

Jess, You are a great photographer I got 30 years of experience in photography and I have learned a lot from your editing tutorials, thank you. pls, allow me to say: Not everybody is going to like you and you can't make everybody like you. when you accept that you will be a lot happier, sharing your story makes you a leader and an inspiration for many. There is a big amount of work behind each one of your tutorials. thank you for that. Focus on yourself, your partner, your dogs, and your love for photography or whatever you do. you are extremely good at it. if you allow me advice when I argue with my wife she says I have to work on my anxiety and frustration levels instead of that I ask her to focus on whatever makes her happy... I am fully convinced this way the negative will go away by itself. watch your own videos you will be proud of yourself

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you SO much!

[@simonbates9221]

Never worry about the trolls or what anyone else thinks. If your KZbin channel helps one person you have achieved. Always put your mental health first and always ask for help. You will be surprised how many people are in the same place. I have to say I love your work and I have learnt loads so keep up the good work. The portraits are awesome and I would love some coaching one day in the field and on photoshop. So thank you 👍🏻

[@femke25]

My physical health has really gone downhill over the past years, and i'm no longer able to do any of my old hobbies and i'm confined to an electric wheelchair on bad days. This made me feel really bad mentally but i recently discovered that photographing my dog is actually fun. I still don't know what i'm doing really but it's just nice to have a hobby again. Your video's have helped me so much already. Thank you for telling your story and making all of these great videos!

[@ppww6076]

I've recently discovered your channel and have been finding it a fantastic resource. I know this video has been out there for a while but regarding your kind offer in this video I hope you've remembered to look after yourself first and haven't taken on other peoples mental/emotional turmoil. Advice is good but please protect your own well being. Also regarding pressure - you can only do what you can do. Do your best but don't feel bad about taking time to recharge. Loving the Ren Diaries - you've revived my interactions with my mixed parentage Poppy dog who is now learning to 'flat'.

[@endtimeimages3284]

I really appreciate how openly you speak about these things. Wish you all the best!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much 😊

[@Lab-Rat]

I just saw your channel just now and you are exactly what I was looking for in dog photography. I don’t understand why people have to be mean. Your work is amazing. Keep on keeping on!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!

[@BulletproofPitbulls]

Love your honesty and we all go thru a mess before it's gets organized ❤️❤️

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Very very true!

[@itswamba2060]

Thank you for putting all you do into this channel. The information that you provide is priceless and you are a great teacher. This channel is quickly becoming one of my favorites. So, thank you. I’m an old guy and can say with certainty, life can sometimes get tough. But one thing I have learned is that you win when you don’t quit. And there are a lot of people, myself included, pleading with you to never quit! Your channel is amazing and we need you. Please don’t leave us to the trolls!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much, that's just so kind of you to say 🙏 You're absolutely right, not quitting is indeed winning. Your support means such a lot, thank you, we couldn't do this without you guys 🥰

[@philsimpson2854]

As the father of a 16 year old girl who’s just at the beginning of her journey through life. If she manages to achieve half of what you have by such a young age, I will be a very proud Dad. Despite life trying to push you back far more than is far, you’ve come so far and achieved so much, it’s genuinely incredible. Please don’t put your self under pressure worry about having to deliver at such a high level, just embrace your talents and enjoy them. I’ve learned that when things go wrong, it helps you enjoy success ever more. It’s taken me nearly 50 years to learn not to worry about things that haven’t happened yet, it’s so liberating. Practicing ‘mindfulness’ and ‘being present’ is a game changer! You’re clearly a master of anything you turn your hand to. Try to imagine being mediocre at everything like me 😂😂😂😂. Oh and f#*! Trolls. Please feel free to forward their details on to me, I’ll happily treat them with the same respect, they treat you 😉😂

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Ah Phil, this is such a kind comment, I am so sorry it has taken me so long to reply to it! Thank you so so much for your kind words, I really do appreciate them. I guess we are all just making our way through life, doing the best we can. I just hope my videos inspire others, and I want to enjoy what I do!

[@nicoledinkel6876]

Greetings from Switzerland and I'll just let my respect for your work and also your personality here! You are doing amazing! Keep on and do not listen to haters - your photography is one of the best I've ever seen and I learned so much from your videos and really like your honesty and your sense of humour! Thanks a lot!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you Nicole, a lovely comment 🤗

[@saddlebroke226]

Jess - I am a new fan, and am in the process of binge-watching all of your content. I can't begin to express how much I admire you as a person...clearly, you are awesome at what you do in terms of photography...but this video just spoke right to my soul. I don't know if I'll ever get the opportunity to work with you 1-1 (it's on my bucket list now for sure!), but I sure hope I will. You are a rare and unique individual, and I am so grateful you had the courage to be so vulnerable in creating and sharing this video of your backstory. OK, I'll stop gushing now. ~Kelly

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Ahhhh Kelly - thank you so so much for this message, it is so lovely to red. Welcome to the gang! 🥰

[@abr354]

What an incredible and inspiration person! I only discovered your channel a few weeks ago, being 40 years old now and perhaps embarking on a midlife crisis lol, but hoping to find a future in my passion for photography and animals. I can't begin to explain how helpful your videos have been, but your honesty and compassion is truly unique and really very heart warming. Anyone leaving you negative comments are clearly just jealous of your talents and ambition. Proud to be from Yorkshire! Thank you Jess!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much! Welcome to the community! ❤️

[@marlanak3961]

You can add another person you've helped to your list! Between your IPS tips, location scouting tips, behind the scenes, and editing techniques, I feel like I've been given more tools to be able to grow as a business owner and artist. Another photographer in a pet photography group recommended your channel to me and I've been binge watching it for days. You are able to impart information in easily learned, easily understood ways, and I appreciate that you always speak to your viewers like a real, down-to-earth person. I enjoy your personality and your side comments always make me smile. What you've done in this video just makes me appreciate you all the more. Everything you've built here is absolutely wonderful and you should be so, so proud.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Aww Marlana, thank you so much for the kind words!

[@pattymattes7124]

You are important too! I'm sorry for your loss. Please don't pay attention to the trolls or negative comments. Think of all the thousands like me who you have helped. We appreciate you!!! Thank you!!!

[@RAFTERMHORSES]

Malcolm Forbes is attributed with saying "The purpose of education to to replace an empty mind with an open one"...I believe this to be applicable in each of our own personal journey. Learning about each other teaches us to be more open. Thank you for being open with your story. I truly believe that we inspire people who pretend they don't see us, no matter our story. I hope you continue to share your knowledge and yourself with those of us who much appreciate it...

[@asrotties]

Life is challenging but our challenges make us stronger. I really enjoy all of your tip videos. I am an older woman who just likes taking pictures of my dogs and friends dogs. I am not trying to win awards or show anyone up, just to have fun. I so wish that I was close to you, I would LOVE to come and learn from you.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Come visit us, check out the website for details of all the 1-2-1 courses we offer 👌🏼. But more importantly, welcome to the community, and thank you so much for watching!

[@scottcjmckelviephotography]

Whilst I'm not someone who will find a lot of the information I'm already fully aware of, such as the operation of a camera, composition, lighting, etc, I still look for such information from people like yourself relative to starting business. I'm pushing to get my pet photography business going and thankful there are now channels out there like your own which do exist. I recall looking a while back and there weren't really many, if any, doing so. So even for someone like myself who graduated in photography, I still find information like this useful. I know from experience, doesn't matter if you have all the technical skills in photography, which I gained through my time at college, it's experience that counts for so much and the bits in pet photography is invaluable and channels like your own I may pick up information here and there. I came from a dark place myself throughout the 2010s for much of that decade, I know what harm that can cause, it's good to do what you love and are passionate of, gives you the sense of purpose, and ignore nonsense, I'm sure you're in a far better place now than before.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for your kind words 🙏

[@paleprincess6099]

Don’t know if you’d still read comments on these old videos.. but just wanted to say I’ve recently embarked on a business venture into dog photography and I’ve been watching hundreds of your videos - I had guessed you were a similar age to me and couldn’t believe you were such an established photographer with INCREDIBLE knowledge in all things camera / photography / editing / dogs (turns out we’re the exact same age 🤣). It was really nice watching this video and learning a bit more about you - your videos have been incredibly helpful, your intelligence blows my mind and you’re an incredible teacher too. Thank you so much for all your videos and advice on dog photography ❤️

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

This is such a lovely comment 🫶🏻 thank you so much for your kind words and good luck on your journey into the world of dog photography 🤓

[@abynormlbrain]

Wanted to tell you thank you for the great free advice in your videos. They fill me with hope that I can take my passion for this as a hobby much further. It’s helped me show dogs in a rescue and connect them with adopting families. You’re a very awesome person, thank you.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much, that means such a lot 🙏 and what an amazing way to use your talent, so much respect to you ❤️

[@67davejb]

I came across your channel recently and I have found the content excellent. I considered starting a business as a dog photographer and I took photos of some friends dogs. I had low self esteem and no belief that I could achieve a career, so it went no further. I have suffered with depression for many years and this has been an anchor around my neck, stopping me going forward in life. Recently a change of job that I am happy with, has lifted my mood and I have been thinking about dog photography again. Finding your channel has been very useful, but I know my doubts about myself can hold me back. I hope I can move forward with this!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I am glad that you have found our content good for you! Sorry to hear about your low self esteem, limited self belief etc but I am glad that a change in job to something that you are happy with is helping you! Honestly, do not ever doubt yourself, gain little pieces of knowledge and then head out and practice these (your subject doesn't have to be a live subject it can be anything, I often use a teddy bear). Once your are getting comfortable with these learnings, go and learn a little more and put that into practice whilst maintaining your previously learnt information. This will help you with your self belief as instead of trying to tackle it all at once and seeing little improvement, getting frustrated etc you are breaking this down into mini goals/sections and able to see these areas improve and your understanding of these things develop. Hope this helps

[@67davejb]

@@ThatPhotographySpot Thanks for your kind words and and advice, it helps very much. I believe you have a marquee at the photography show? Would be good to meet you in person 👍

[@rolandrickphotography]

OMG, and I thought my life is difficult. Thanks for your courage to share yours with us, I really appreciate.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Happy to help!

[@robinmcconnell6488]

I just absolutely love you and all the effort you put in for anyone ❤️😘

[@unikornpuke0027]

You are absolutely amazing. Thank you for being so raw and letting us all know that it’s ok to have ups and downs and not being perfect.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you 🙏 It's a scary thing to lay it all out there but it's so important to remember we're all human. Thank you so much for your continued support, it means a lot to us all 🥰

[@Ramox71]

Thank you for your honesty. Love your videos. You are big inspiration !

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!

[@Kerryfrancephotography]

Wow….. i have learnt so much watching your videos… why are people so cruel.. ignore them your doing amazing.. stay positive.. keep up the good work x

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much 😀

[@AC-xh9wr]

There will always be vile people in life who attempt to pull good people down, especially on social media which is notorious for it. However, equally there will always be beautiful, kind hearted, caring people who rise above such things, giving it the zero attention it deserves. It takes great strength to keep focused on all the positives of life such as genuine people, nature, animals and all the things that are true to you. To not lose who you truly are; your values. To stick to these no matter what vile people throw your way. Many people choose to step away from social media due to the negatives, to preserve their own mental health. That is fine. If you do ever feel you need to step away then you must do that, for yourself. All I can say is I find your videos are brilliant. Great explanations, open, honest, uplifting, professional, heart warming and truly inspiring. I do not know you of course as like you said, social media is not real, but know this... I think your honesty and bravery shines through. It speaks for itself. Look at what you've achieved! Wow! You should be incredibly proud of yourself Jess. Just keep doing what you do, and you won't go wrong. Being truly you no matter what life throws. That's what all your genuine followers love about you 😁

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so so much Amanda for taking the time to comment, I really really appreciate it 🤗

[@deborahwall8337]

Jess, I discovered your channel a few weeks ago and your tone and way of teaching is so wonderful and soothing. Thank you for sharing your talents and self.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

What great feedback, thank you 😊 Hope you continue to enjoy the content

[@sven1858]

I found that moving, the courage that must have taken to display this recording on line must have been immense .You definitely have a talent for presenting photography and photoshop details to others in a clear and concise way. Please find and take time for yourself and those close to you.

[@micronet67]

It very courageous of you to be so transparent. Keep on moving forward! Thank-you for your videos, I used some of your techniques this past weekend to shoot at a farm with horses.Really came in handy.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Ah fab - so glad the videos were useful!

[@micronet67]

@@ThatPhotographySpot do you have a photoshop workshop or tutorial I can purchase or view? I've seen your editing videos and I think they are great and informative. I guess I need some basics first. I have used photoshop in the past, but very basic stuff and are currently experimenting (how to remove objects) but the masking thing is a bit confusing. I use lightroom a lot, so I do know how to navigate around adobe software, but I'm seeing your edits and want to go to the next level. What would you recommend?

[@TheEtrangeclown]

I've recently found out about your youtube channel and learned so much thanks to you. I'm a photographer and never done pet photography before, I've just got my puppy and was searching how to take pictures of her ( border collie too ) and I have some amazing shot now. I'm so happy. You"re amazing teacher, person and love seeing you on videos. Thank you for taking the time to do this one, must have been difficult but made me love you and your channel even more. Photography always been my safe space, when life happened and you can't find this safe space anymore, it's hard, very hard. Thank you for putting words with such honesty. Keep going, you're worth it.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much 💕

[@simontween]

Full time prep teacher here. Love teaching. Love photography and film making. Huge believer in sharing knowledge, peer to peer support, learning from each other and discovering for yourself. I've literally just watched a couple of your tutorials, thought I'd have a quick browse and ended up being hooked on them from start to finish. So so much learnt already, I can't tell you! And then on to this one. All I can say is that I share the sentiment of the comments given by your followers below. You are so rich in talent and enthusiasm, have so much to give and will no doubt have so much yet to discover for yourself. Lean on your friends, family and your dogs. If you stumble, pick yourself up and brush yourself down. Count your blessings and be the light in the darkness. Be good to yourself!

[@markedwards4787]

Thank you so much for this Jess. NO details... but at 9 minsish, my daughter has gone through similar and now trying to find her path in life. She is currently a full time dog walker and loving it, which is great for me as a budding pet photographer ofcourse :)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much for sharing that Mark 🥰 and it's great to hear your daughter has found a vocation she loves and for you too! that's a win win in my eyes 👏

[@yasmineellis5568]

Wow, how honest and kind of you to share your story. I have only just found your channel and am loving your videos. I am learning lots and wish I had found you sooner. You have made me believe I can create amazing photos with practise. Thank you so very much more than I can say. I wish you all the very best with everything you do and hope you will continue to inspire people like me. X

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much for this comment - it's not always easy to be so open on the internet, but if I can help and inspire 1 person then I'm okay with it 🫶🏻

[@vickishequin7040]

I think you are totally awesome and are SO talented. I've been binge watching your channel and continue to be amazed by what you do with the camera and am learning a lot. Do NOT let people get you down with rude comments (I know....easier said than done right?!).....but they aren't worth your attention. You forgot to mention what an amazing dog trainer you are too!! Your dogs are perfect models. I have an English Cream Golden Retriever who I use as my practicing model and I have to say I was blown away by what your pups can do for you. I've started to try and teach him to get up on things to pose for me by using your techniques. I shoot dog photo's for one of our local rescues as a volunteer and have come across some very challenging dogs to photograph. I've learned a lot of patience from the experience!ha Just wanted to let you know that I think your are awesome and will continue to watch your channel. Congratulations on your awards too - well deserved.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much Vicki. It sounds like you're doing amazing work too which you should be really proud of!

[@jason.thompson38]

Keep up the good work just recently started watching your videos and following you on social media your pictures are amazing and really enjoying watching your photo shoot videos.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much Jason!

[@sabi_ne]

Thank you for sharing your story. It is never easy to talk about traumatic experiences (I've had my share of bad stuff happening to me so I can kinda relate 😢) . You have a great supportive community though and I'm glad that I found your channel. Please continue doing what you are doing because you are amazing. ❤️❤️❤️ I wish I could give you a hug right now.

[@artwiebe3076]

Awrun I just came across your videos only a few days ago. I too love photography, wildlife and nature, but my most photographed subject is my dog, Zoey. I always have a lot of fun trying to produce different looking portraits with her. Your videos and photography are really great,. I've only watched about 6 of them so far, but already I've learned a few new techniques. Thank You

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Welcome aboard!

[@marilynvantyghem6714]

Thank you for the honnesty and advising to make mental health a priority. Hope you are feeling happy today 😘(2 years later then video) You inspire me and many many others, thank you soooo much 🤩🤩🤩

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Feeling great, thank you ❤ And thank you so much for your lovely words. This is exactly why I make these videos, to help others 😊

[@marcelvanderhout2457]

Respect and thanks for your life story. Enjoy your clear explainings !

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

My pleasure!

[@carlacalandra3864]

really impressed of your great strength to tell your story with emotion and great self control. Agree with you, photography is our own place where escape, where feeling safe and where left outside all the rest! Great courage, great professional person, great photographer and let me say...great woman!!!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much! ❤️

[@markpratt505]

Thank you for all you do for us photographers and pet photographers. Thank you opening up to us, it makes me feel you’re more of a friend and less of a “person I found on You Tube”. I thoroughly enjoy your channel and wish you keep it up for a long long time. Love you, my friend and will continue to watch and learn from you.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Wow, thank you!

[@annasu2161]

I only started watching your videos here a while ago. I have to say I respect your honesty! You are so real and I love the way you talk and explain things. I learned so so much in the last couple of sleepless night I had because of my little one teething!! Thanks for this.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for your lovely kind words 🙏 hopefully your little one isn’t experiencing too much discomfort whilst teething 🤞🏼

[@angelinacarrasquillo5260]

I'm so glad you decided to keep this channel. Literally almost cried because this past July was a very hard time for me.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Don't worry - we are still here! 🥳

[@jenniferregnier5878]

Thank you for having the courage to share your story. And thank you for taking the time to be such a valuable resource to us all.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@charlottemummery1256]

You're an inspiration in many ways, your work and how kind you are to help others but also your courage to post content like this. We're all so so glad you're back. animals are so much better than humans and owe us nothing yet give sooo much, your work really captures them in this way. As crazy as it is, and as awful as things get.. life definitely has a way of falling apart to point you in the right direction I've gone through some awful things, some of what you mentioned - but somehow what I've been through has pushed me back to doing things that make my heart happy such as my artwork . Spending time with my two dogs and drawing animals is what gives me joy in life.. and now so does photography thanks to you. Basically we are so happy you make this content and share your work as well as intimate things such as this video with us. You bring us joy and its so lovely you take pride and joy in that.

[@johnellerton1216]

Fantastic I have spent all afternoon watching your videos 😊😊😊😊

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much 😀

[@sarasabian]

Thank you so much for your openness and sharing this video. I've recently picked up my camera again and spending time with it and my dogs has bought me a lot of joy. I'm bipolar and I've been physically unwell for a while now so having that source of positivity, making memories with my dogs means so much. I love your channel, the haters can only be jealous.

[@zcurtiss2899]

Thank you so much for all that you do! You have inspired and helped me a lot in my journey, as I have learned so much in the short time since I discovered your channel. You are a survivor of this tough life, and there are many of us out here who rejoice that you have engaged the world with your remarkable talents of teaching us about more aspects of photography than any other channel out there. I had no idea when I happened upon your channel that it would contribute so much to my all-around comprehension and knowledge base of all things photography. Keep up the great work and take care of yourself along the way!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much for your kind and heartfelt words and for your support, it means a lot to know our content is helping you on your journey 🙏 🙏 I hope you continue to enjoy what we do 😊

[@jacquisalisbury2845]

I’ve just watched this video and I think you are a truly lovely, genuine and down to earth person. I suffer with anxiety and if I’m having a rough day I’ll take my camera and go out for the day somewhere and it makes me feel so much better. I will definitely continue to watch all your videos and keep learning great things 😘

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

🥰

[@thewibby101]

Wow! Please keep pushing on and being you, I can't believe how many similarities I have in my own journey to yours. I am truly amazed by all that you have done in such a short amount of time and honestly how established you are as a person and photographer. I myself have been pursuing photography since the beginning of my teen years and it's been incredibly tough and I have had my fair share of giving up periodically but this video has really given me new found inspiration to just keep trying and ultimately after watching several of your videos now I realize I really have gotten quite lazy and need to apply myself more to my craft and pay more attention to things such as how I can make my images better, so in conclusion thank you!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Keep going - you've got this 💕

[@MrTorontoNight]

Thank you for your honesty Jess, you are truly very inspiring and I love your photography and videos. I used photography and getting a dog to help me recover from a very dark period in my life and have since met so many lovely dog owners and joined a local dog owners group on Facebook. This has led to me doing many shoots for people and raising charity donations for Alzheimer's Research. Watching your tutorials helps and inspires me when I'm out with my camera, although laying on the ground is getting tougher for the old bones! :-)

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much Chris, but yes, lying on the floor can be tough!

[@jim_hawkins]

Thanks for sharing, I love your channel and the training you share. Keep it up...

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@Waterclosetbiker]

I was referred to your channel buy another dog photographer in the Colorado. I have no idea what to expect. I am starting a new dog photography business in the Denver area. I have found your channel and are content to be extremely relevant and useful. On the other hand you have been fantastic and look forward to getting to watch all the videos and perhaps getting to know you in some personal training sessions.

[@philsimpson2854]

Jess, Bless you and well done, it clearly took a great deal of courage for you to make this video (twice 😂). I’ve been a firefighter in London for 26 years and as you can imagine have had to deal with some horrific situations that can send you to a dark place and challenge your personal resilience. For someone so young, you’ve clearly had more than your fair share of personal challenges, but don’t let that define you exclusively, Despite what you’ve faced, think about what you have achieved , it’s far more than what most can achieve in a lifetime! Whilst you don’t forget, you can learn to move on from life’s challenges, it just takes the time it takes and can’t be rushed. The biggest help for me was practicing ‘mindfulness’ and being ‘present’ because overthinking can be really debilitating. With the talents you have, you’d have every right to walk round looking smug all the time, but obviously you don’t because you’re far too humble. As the father of a 16 year old girl, I will be choked with pride if my daughter could achieve half of what you have. Dont view what you do as pressure to keep it up, just enjoy the talents you have. Well done and look forward to your future stuff. #f-- trolls! 😉

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much :)

[@vinhphung3646]

Your efforts and hard works are truly helpful for beginners like me. I have learned a lot and will continue learning, so keep up the good works and take care of yourself mentally and physically.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

So kind - thank you so much :)

[@lisailiff6724]

Thank you for sharing your story, you are amazing! I just found you, I received my first camera for Christmas this year, and am trying to learn everything I possibly can. You’re videos have resonated with me and have already helped me to learn, so please don’t stop, I love them! 😀 I’m 53 and live on a farm (also learning that lol) I love photographing my animals. I also help a local animal rescue by photographing the dogs up for adoption. I love being creative and I can’t wait to see what else I can learn from you; your work is amazing and your teaching style is fun and informative. So just, thank you! 🙏🏼 Now I need to get back to watching your video! 😉 Lisa

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Lisa, that's so kind of you 🥰 Knowing our content makes a difference is the best feedback we could hope for so thank you. Farming, animals and photographing rescue dogs! Amazing 👌 can't wait to see what you create

[@Auskiter]

Thank you again for just begin you..... So much respect. On behalf of myself and the full community that has learnt so much from you... thank you... just thank you.

[@judineachell4879]

You might not be right all the time and you might not be wrong all the time (your words) but what you definitely are ..is honest and genuine! Be proud x

[@meditativeartcreation109]

Wow. Respected you before, but the respect has elevated even more if that makes sense. A lot of courage to post a video like this. Many of us have gone through something at some point, including myself. Stay strong and keep posting great material. Since watching you, I wanted to get into pet photography and started with my own pets.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Amazing news that you have got into photography 🤗 Thank you for the support and kind words, it is always so so nice to read 🥰

[@steves8661]

I've recently found this channel through searching for photoshop tips love your style of teaching and the knowledge you pass on. Great honest video it's good to hear your back story keep doing what you are doing

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

That's so kind, thank you 🙏 such great feedback and so good to know you are enjoying the content 😊

[@karinvogtfotografie]

Respect ! Good to see you beeing yourself and share info with us that not everybody wants/dare to share. I'm 57 years old and have learned that life's a bitch (pardon my French :-) ) sometimes,...Been where you have been about the same age and unfortunately again a year ago. Photography is my safe space too most of the time ( I was 9 when I started taking photographs) but I also had periods that I did not had any inspiration at all. I'm now a proud grandmother, my granddaughter is 11 months old and I love her soooo much and after losing my three great Jack Russell girls (14- 16 and 17 years old) last year in only 8 months of time, I now love a little Jack Russell girl again. I love your channel and really hope you keep on going with all the great video's and superb tips. I learned so much here already, thanks for that. Sorry for my not so perfect English :-)

[@only_wildlife_by_lin7056]

Thank you so much for your openness in this video. I recognize myself in it and it makes me realize that I have to continue photographing because that is what I prefer to do. I really want to make it my job, but I never think I'm good enough. Thank you again for all your videos. Friendly greetings, Colinda

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Have confidence in yourself Colinda - you can do it!

[@adrianhydephotography]

Hoi Jess. Just keep being yourself. Your story is an inspiration and you have to go through some bad times to really appreciate the good times. You have achieved so much you are amazing even though sometimes you may question yourself….don’t. You don’t need to answer to anybody who you don’t want to. Thanks for sharing your story. When people turn around and say well it’s ok for you then they don’t know what it’s takes to be where you are today. All the blood sweat and many tears all goes into making something special and you have done it with so much grace. Have a fantastic day.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!

[@bynumoil9615]

Thanks Jess. Photography is a safe space for me too. Your courage in this thing called life is inspiring.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much, just got to keep going, even through the tough times. We are all in it together! 🥰

[@PhilSledge]

Not seen this video before it come up on my telly Thanks for sharing, Jess. So glad things are working out for you & Dan. We all go through the Tits Up period of our lives and come out the other end.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for your kind words Phil. Hope you njoyed the video and found it useful.

[@suerichardson1289]

Jess you’re such an amazing person❤️ Thanks so much for sharing and trusting us with your story.

[@emmanash760]

Yes, I completely agree with you. Well done for sharing it Jess!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!!

[@tonytee2107]

Very enlightening. Thanks for sharing.

[@jonhermannsson9231]

Great video as always

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

🥳

[@janeenrose8097]

you are an amazing, talented, gifted, beautiful human being. Don't let anyone change you! Thank you for your wonderful training videos!!! Your dogs are amazing!!!!! Many blessings. Greetings from Connecticut, USA!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Awww thank you for such kind words 🥰 Thank you for your support and I hope you continue to enjoy the content 🤓

[@ancymonekzuy]

I am amazed by your person and this channel that you created. Thank you for your work and I hope I could meet you one day and learn from you. Take care!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

That would be amazing 😊 thank you so much for those kind words and for your support 🙏

[@jocelynridley9438]

Thank you for sharing such an honest video, as someone who finds both comfort in photography and angst (am I good enough, what am I doing, why would anyone pay me etc), hearing your struggles and how you have managed to work through them makes me feel less alone. Keep sharing your beautiful work and I look forward to seeing what you do next xxx

[@lingyic3549]

It great that you're back and helping people, you're videos are so helpful and taught me A LOT, like actually a lot. You're so strong and brave for coming out and talking to us. sorry I'm so bad with words, but I'm really really glad and thankful that you're doing well and helping us with your videos.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!

[@katarinafrankova56]

Two big THANK YOUs Jess, thank you for what you are doing and thank you for your honesty, your channel is important photography resource for many of us, you are a great teacher and mentor.

[@katarinafrankova56]

Photography is a safe space for me too.

[@miriamsmith6896]

Your story is very similar to mine so you have all my respect. Trolls are just people jealous, with no life. I found you just lurking on youtube and now I follow you on facebook and I can't wait for more. I switched my business to pets as this is where my happiness is, dog and horses and you gave me the right tools to actually DO it. I'm just looking forward to be able to meet you at one of your workshop. You are a strong woman and a very talented photographer/entrepreneur so thank you for this channel. You are helping lots of photographers in so many different levels. with Love M

[@lynnaechilcott8328]

Thank you so much for this video, for your candidness, honesty, and inspiring attitude. I cannot express enough how much I have enjoyed your channel. It has helped me in so many ways, with my photography as well as with my general outlook. Thank you for sharing so much with all of us. As Marie said, you truly are a blessing to so many!

[@bonnienovotny3270]

I love your Chanel and this video really resonates with me. I find photography my safe space too. Thank you for being you.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Awww thank you for your kind words ☺

[@mikaelaborg9955]

You are wounderful!! LOVE your photos so much! You are strong as f**k, keep it up!

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you so much!! 💪🏼

[@TheSeashel]

Wow, what a very honest and personal video, thank you for sharing, I can relate to a lot. As I was watching it made me think that often the journeys we take are rather like photography and editing. We start off with the basics and put it together as best as we can to shoot the RAW image, then off we go to processing and some things work, and some don't. The end result often seems great, but with hindsight we can see things that could have been done better, or it holds up as a job well done. One of my favourite quotes "Life is like a camera. Focus on what's important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives and if things don't work out, try another shot". Might get to say hi one day at an agility show somewhere :D Take care x

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I love that quote! thank you so much for sharing your thoughts Julia and thank you for your support 🙏 Would be great to say "hi" 🥰

[@RhondaTipton]

I am not a great word-smith like others here... so I will say thank you so much for putting yourself out there. You have more courage than I ever thought about having. Thank you for sharing your experience and workflow. I have enjoyed your videos tremendously and I just started following on IG which is where I primarily live Social Media-wise. Again, a heart-felt thank you, from Houston...soon to be the desert of Arizona.

[@lisamaier9984]

Congratulations on you well earned the award 🏆. We need you, and you help. I believe that those who leave nasty comments , I believe they are jealous. Please do not let “those who are hateful and ugly of the world” steal from those of use who love and care about you and respect your work. I am so happy, you are where you are. I am very proud of you as well.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

💛

[@martinstokes5596]

Thankyou for being so open and honest..its good to hear you have come through the bad times and are in a better place now, long may it continue..Your videos have certainly helped me and given me food for thought over the last couple of months so big thanks for that..Keep up the good work and hold your head high..

[@scottcampbell9479]

Came across your videos today. I've been en doing all kinds of photography for around 20 yrs (not my job just a hobby) but you have already taught me a few things. Thank you. Keep up the good work. Will subscribe now. All the best

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

thank you so much for the great feedback 🙏 and so pleased you're enjoying the content

[@trudybush1847]

yes you do definitely help and are greatly appreciated!

[@shirleycove456]

So glad I found you! I have only watched a few of your videos so far but have already learned a ton. I really like your approach. The way you teach is very clear and concise. The videos are short and to the point...I love it. I admire your wholehearted authenticity, few people could have done THIS video with such grace. I too have trouble charging people for my work. I dont really want to undercut any other photographers but some people just can't afford to feed their kids and have a great picture of their dogs. I started doing "end of life" shoots...how to you charge some one who is loosing their pet?...forgive me, I ramble. Keep up the great work.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

That's such beautiful feedback, thank you so much 🙏

[@jauntified]

Hi Jess, I just started following you a week ago and have to say your content is awesome! I just got a puppy a few months ago, and with the amount of work that's involved with a puppy and with most things still restricted in my region due to the pandemic, I have no life anymore outside of spending time with my dog. I might as well take some decent photos of my puppy while on our short outings! It's cool to hear your story. Ignore the haters and trolls and just take note that a fellow from central Canada is now looking forward to your future videos!

[@Thecookbookmom]

I appreciate all of your videos and feel like I can really relate. My grandfather was very into photography mainly back before digital took over and did win with some print competitions with his work in STL, because of his passion I became interested however as I was starting to dive into photography he was diagnosed with cancer and ended up passing away. After that I was not able to do photography along with being in a terrible relationship for way longer than I should have been I gave up on that passion. It was only once my amazing husband saw that passion still in me and got me a new DSLR for Christmas this year that I have been able to get back into it. Because of Covid we haven't been leaving the house beyond the backyard or to walk around the neighborhood, so I have only been taking photos of my dogs and son. I have been looking to youtube to learn and prepare for once we can return to the real world again. Your videos have been wonderful and I have learned so much from you already, thank you for all the hard work you put into these.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

What a truly heartwarming story Chelsea 💕 I am so glad you found your happy ending and your amazing husband has helped relight your spark for photography 😊 Fingers crossed we can all leave the house more freely soon so you can get out and do what you love - I am sure your Grandfather would be so proud 😗

[@michellehulshoffotografie2105]

A big big hug for you ☺️ i love your work!

[@jazmintoor]

We love your videos!!! Please keep sharing ❤

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

Thank you for your kind words 🙂

[@elainewells76]

Keep up the good work. Your teaching is much appreciated. All the best for your future.

[@PatriziaValMadiona]

I needed this video more than you might ever think 💕 I am back giving photography and myself really another try, this time with pets as they are a safe space as you mention. This, after 4 years now of complete shutdown mentally and emotionally where lifting a camera felt too hard for me.

[@ThatPhotographySpot]

I'm glad you've found your way back to photography 😊

[@pawtraitsbysteve5902]

Can I say thank you for being so honest. I have been shooting for 3 years now and really did not what direction I wanted to go in, thats just me changing my mind every 5 minutes...joys of ADHD. anyway I wanna say tha ks because watching your stuff it clicked.. I know where I am heading now. See you do marketing really struggle with this and wondered if you work in UK and are you doing any videos on it.. steve

[@paulwilcock4351]

Jess, I appreciate your courage in telling your story, I know I wouldn't have been able to do that, well done. I am glad you are in a better place now and I am thankful for coming across your channel this week. I have just completed my first dog portrait shoot and needed some post-production guidance and got it. Thank you. Thank you, Paul

[@ringeradi]

You're such a beautiful human being! Genuine and caring, I love that about you and it's a big reason I follow your channel. Stay strong, keep doing what you're doing and ignore the a-holes. Sorry for your loss and congrats about Dan.