Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Burgstiner.
Hi Monica, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Monica and I am the owner of Monica Jean Photography. I was raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and moved to Savannah, Georgia in 2009 to attend SCAD, where I later received my bachelor’s degree in Photography.
My inspiration started with my parents. Despite their busy work schedules in the medical field, they always made it to every sporting event and piano recital, with a camera in hand. They captured small moments at our home with my five siblings, and created memories that we could (and do) look back on all of the time when we’re together.
For our high school graduation, my dad made a video for each kid with the “greatest hits”, including all the funniest and sweetest photos and videos he had taken of us, from birth to our senior year of high school. It was such a great reflection of our personalities, and memories made together. Those photos and videos are priceless, and something I want to be able to capture for others.
As a kid, I always loved art and knew I wanted to do something in that field. I had tried every art class under the sun when I finally took my first photography class, in my junior year of high school. I remember when I turned in my first photography project, and my teacher said, “This is it. This is your thing”- and I ran with it.
Having a creative outlet has kept me inspired and motivated, while I discovered my passion in photographing people. I want to hear their stories, capture their growing families, and photograph their different seasons of life.
After graduating from SCAD in 2013, I worked odd jobs while playing with the idea of starting my own photography business. I began offering sessions on the weekends, and over time, my business grew. In 2016, I took the leap of faith and left my 9-5 job, and took my photography business full-time.
At the same time, I found out I was pregnant with my first daughter and started serving on the board of directors for SAFE Shelter. My hopes of working for myself as a photographer, becoming a mother, and becoming involved in the community were all coming together. What seemed like a dream was quickly a reality, and the journey of my evolving business has been one of the greatest blessings.
I am thankful for every client, friend, and family member that has supported me throughout the years, and has trusted me to capture their milestones, big or small.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The journey of getting where I am now was not easy. While working on my degree at SCAD, I found myself in an abusive relationship. This drained my energy and made it difficult to find motivation, despite being so close to graduating. During the final two quarters at SCAD, my senior year, I met Lance, who is now my husband.
He and my professors stood by my side as I went through the process of escaping the abusive relationship and stayed by my side as I got back on my feet. I got the chance to heal and to find beauty and inspiration again. I had the opportunity and the choice of continuing my dreams as a photographer, which I am so grateful for.
Lance was instrumental in helping me build my business over the years, with his love, support, and knowledge. I was able to connect with other local artists, take workshops, find my own voice and style, and lean into what I am most passionate about.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I photograph families, labor and delivery, and weddings. I would describe my work as emotive, moody, and true-to-color. My photo sessions have become more unstructured over time, as I allow kids to run and play during the shoot, to create genuine smiles and emotions.
I am proud of how my work has evolved over time, and of the studio space, I have been able to put together with my friend Mackensey at Cedar House Gallery. Having our studio has really helped us create a space that is styled in a way that reflects our vision, gives a unique spot for clients to have their photos taken, and a quiet space to connect.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was very timid and quiet. While I would typically observe and listen when in group settings, I felt most myself when I was able to be one-on-one with someone. Having that sacred time to connect with a person directly, was special. It allowed less small talk, and more real conversations about the fun things, and the difficult situations, and helped form meaningful relationships.
When I moved to a new state for college, I broke out of my shell and allowed myself the joy and freedom of being me. I became more involved and outgoing and had the incredible experience of creating a life for myself in Georgia. Being able to embrace both parts of myself and my experience has been incredibly helpful when meeting new clients and friends.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: monica-jean.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/monicajeanphotography
- Facebook: facebook.com/monicajeanphotography
