Creating stories through visual storytelling
Meet Jaclyn Hernandez, the creative force behind Images by J.Renee, a brand photography studio dedicated to helping local businesses and entrepreneurs share their unique stories through authentic visual storytelling. With a background in film, television, and corporate experience, Jaclyn’s journey back to photography is one of resilience, passion, and purpose. Here, Jaclyn shares insights into her professional journey, the inspiration behind her work, and her vision for the future of Images by J.Renee.
Q: What does success mean to you, and how has this definition evolved over time?
Jaclyn: For me, success has shifted from focusing on financial gains and career progression to achieving a sense of fulfillment in both personal and professional areas of my life. Early on, I believed success was solely measured by how high I could climb in the corporate world or by my salary. Today, success feels much more like balancing work and life in a way that allows me to grow my business while also being present for my family.
Q: Who is your ideal client or collaborator?
Jaclyn: My ideal clients are personal brands, coaches, and creatives who are passionate about what they do. I love working with clients who value collaboration and want to share their stories authentically. It’s so rewarding to help these businesses and entrepreneurs connect with their audiences in ways that truly reflect their personalities and missions.
Q: What is the inspiration behind your business journey?
Jaclyn: My dad has been a huge inspiration for me. He left the corporate world to start his own business, which was a bold and brave step. While my career path has been different, I’m inspired to follow in his entrepreneurial footsteps. Seeing him build something of his own motivated me to step away from the corporate world and go after a business that feels true to me.
"I’m determined to show my children that they can pursue their dreams and create a life that aligns with their passions."
— Jaclyn Hernandez
Q: Tell us about your personal journey and how it has shaped who you are today.
Jaclyn: Eighteen years ago, I graduated with a degree in Film and Video Production, excited to enter the TV industry. However, after a few years, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. I returned to school for photography, hoping to combine creativity with business ownership. My initial attempts didn’t gain much traction, so I pivoted to a corporate career, where I worked for a decade and started a family. With three kids now, I knew it was time to follow my original dream of running my own photography business full-time. This journey has come full circle, giving me new insights, professional skills, and a renewed purpose to build something meaningful. I’m determined to show my children that they can pursue their dreams and create a life that aligns with their passions.
Q: What makes your approach or business unique?
Jaclyn: I believe in building strong relationships with my clients, learning about their business, and creating a collaborative and personalized experience. My process goes in-depth to understand each client’s personality and brand, so we can craft a visual story that’s genuinely theirs. This collaborative approach ensures that the final images align with their goals and vision.
Q: How do you nurture your mental and emotional health while pursuing high professional goals?
Jaclyn: Staying active is essential for me. Exercise is something that keeps me grounded and focused. Additionally, connecting with other working moms who understand the challenges of balancing work and family life has been incredibly helpful.
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Jaclyn Hernandez | Images by J.Renee
As Jaclyn continues to grow Images by J.Renee, she aims to build a business that not only meets her financial goals but also provides the flexibility to spend quality time with her family. With a passion for empowering local businesses through brand photography, Jaclyn is excited about the journey ahead and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in her clients’ lives.
