A core childhood memory of photography was from my Meme. She would always carry a yellow disposal camera everywhere and wouldn’t ever leave the house without it, saying “who’s got the camera?” She took photos to preserve the memories of all that was happening. In her later years, she ended up with dementia and alheizmers. Maybe a part of me wants to take photos so I’ll always have the memories just like she had them.

Photography, for me, is both relaxing and joyful. It’s also a challenge, with so many elements to consider in each frame — but that challenge is part of what I love. Photography is more than just images; it’s a form of art. It creates connection — a shared joy between the subject and the photographer, the team on set, the client, and the talent. Photography is a gift you give others.

It also keeps me grounded in the present. Whether I’m capturing the emotion of a wedding or the details of an indoor product shoot, I have to be laser-focused and fully present. Each time I pick up my camera, it feels like I’m preserving history — holding onto a memory that will last.

Kelly Jarry
kellyjarryphoto@gmail.com