Ello, love.
If you didn't read that hearing my voice, then we really need to be friends. I have been going over and over how to make this perfect before I go live, and then I realized I needed to follow my own method. This isn't about perfection, this is about authenticity.
Welcome friends, to Essence Photography by Jessica.
“You are altogether beautiful, my darling; there is no flaw in you.”
Song of Solomon 4:7 (NIV)
I've been working on something...
i cannot wait to finally share with you.
Spring of 2017 I was gifted my cherished hand-me-down Nikon from my mother. Every shutter press, every edit, every failure, every win, every slam dunk, and every drastic miss has brought me to this moment. I did a few soft launches as a hobby photographer on the buy/sell/trade sites during peak seasons, but never had the resources to carry it out further than a few sessions. In 2024 when Beckett was born, photography opened a door of opportunity for not just other people to have family photos, but for me to provide an income to support my family. Fast forward to fall 2025, the discussion for establishing a licensed business to supplement my less demanding optical role began. Deep therapy sessions, hours and hours of motivational books later (Jen Sincero anyone?) I started working on the bones of what became Essence Photography by Jessica.
where I fell short...
and what's changed.
This year I have invested in both equipment and in education to be able to offer you exactly what you deserve and expect. For nearly six years I managed an optical department for a busy 5 doctor private optometry practice. In that time I learned nothing is more important than delivering on your promise, and clear expectations and communication. Where I have struggled in the past, I focused intently to ensure I have the equipment and software to be able to deliver not just as expected, but more. A new camera, professional software, and equipment have given me the ability to give my clients the luxury experience and results I believe everyone deserves in a photo session. A federal tax ID, a state business license and number and separate business accounts were all the first step to separate myself from the casual hobbyist filling a need, to a professional photographer. Hours of books, audio books and videos to further my education and knowledge of the technical side and not relying solely on creativity. I am currently working towards accreditation through Professional Photographers of America to be able to provide my clients even higher quality service.
Essence Photography by Jessica
how it came to fruition
I dove into entrepreneur and small business books, and they all centralized on 'why'; why do I want to do this? In 2022 my mom did an impromptu photoshoot with Paige and I while I was doing Paige's End of Life session with Nellie. When I saw the photos from that day, I was taken back by what they reflected. Because I was there for someone else there were no expectations I felt I had to exceed in how I should look in front of the camera. I saw a glow from myself that I had never seen before. A radiance, I learned, that only comes from natural and authentic expressions and moments. The feeling I felt inside is exactly what I wanted to recreate for my clients. Late summer of 2025 I made the decision to begin intensive therapy, and take a healing journey inward. I learned the power of mindset, and how aligning with who you are can propel your journey forward. In vocabulary terms - your essence.
The Spiral Method
and what it means
When researching essence and the meaning behind it, I was directed to symbolisms that represent 'the essence of life'. I was moved to tears when I read the definition of the spiral symbol. Jessica and the spiral have a long history together; unraveling into the next major life shift, or spiraling thoughts unraveling to a dark despair. Traditionally the spiral is attached to the notion of unraveling as a negative, in the greater symbolic sense it represents the evolution and growth through each cycle through life. It is the unfolding of our consciousness for a chance at rebirth all the while connecting the center of who we are along the way. The sun represents rebirth and the opportunity and responsibility we have to rise out of the darkness and at the chance for a new beginning. The Spiral method focuses on returning to yourself, revealing your essence, and radiating the light from within.
Contact information
Located in
Milford Nebraska
I can be reached by call, text, email or through the website and I will be in contact within 48 hours. I am so excited to work with you!
info@essencephotographybyjessica.com
531.276.9033
OFFERINGS
Family
Your family's natural dynamic is what creates timeless and radiant reflections that are handed down from generation to generation. Not perfect poses, but the interactions and expressions in between the poses are where the light truly shines.
OFFERINGS
Couples and Engagement
Have you done a photo shoot for date night? If not, here is your sign you should. Being a silent observer capturing moments of the connection between souls is a beautiful gift. Echoes of essence are waiting.
OFFERINGS
Branding and Events
This is a new area I am very excited to get into. I have found a true passion for making the ordinary come to light, and watching someone get lost in their passion is a remarkable thing to witness. I want to help your brand come to life. Click here to find out more about an exciting unique opportunity for your brand voice.
A rare discount opportunity is available for all branding and event sessions.
Offerings
Senior
Your senior has an opportunity to showcase their transformation and I want to help them tell their story. Helping reveal their essence before they take on their biggest transition yet...adulthood. Let's set them off on their journey glowing.
OFFERINGS
Pets
Our eternal guardians are more apart of our family today than ever before and they deserve their place to shine on the wall. Whether you want to do a session to show off their unique tricks, or you want to memorialize them forever with an end of life session, nothing would honor me more than to let them glow.
Do you work with a rescue organization that has animals that could benefit from more exposure and professional photos? I volunteer my services for just that. Contact me to find out more.
Offerings
Something special is coming for portrait and lifestyle photography...
A special kind of portrait and lifestyle session is in development. The excitement is overflowing for this unique offer and it is hard to keep it a surprise!
I'll make a special announcement when it's ready.
FAQ
When are you available to start booking?
Now! While my website is still in progress, all business behind the scenes is set and ready to start booking and collecting payments. Click the 'Begin my experience' link to get started. My calendar is booking as far out as 2027.
How do i pay?
Currently I take all payments through my website and Venmo. I accept all major forms of credit and debit cards, as well as installment options through the platform Stripe.
How many final images can i expect to receive?
That is entirely up to you! You can have the option of investing one photo into fabulous and timeless pieces of art, or you can invest in the entire gallery of 50+ images. We can discuss details further during your consultation.
How can I expect to receive my portraits?
At the moment I still currently have options for high resolution downloads if you prefer your images to be printed at your own print lab of choice. However, I am shifting my business in the direction to offer beautiful art pieces for your home. Digital downloads may not be an option in the future.
Rediscover your essence
I am truly humbled you are here, and I would be honored to have the opportunity to create timeless memories with you. When you feel the light, you spread the light.