Summary

In this conversation, Jessica Whitaker discusses her journey into photography, her personal style and process, and the importance of inclusivity in the industry. She shares her favorite prompts for couple shoots and offers advice for aspiring photographers. Jessica also emphasizes the significance of having a website and capturing the essence of a location in photos. She concludes by discussing her thoughts on the future of photography, including the use of AI. In this conversation, Jessica Whitaker and Connor discuss the benefits and challenges of using AI in photography. They explore how AI can enhance the final product and save time for photographers. They also address the pushback from traditional photographers who view AI as cheating. The conversation highlights the positive and negative effects of AI in photography, including the potential for brands to replace photographers and models with AI-generated content. They also discuss the use of AI to expand photos and the concerns about photo manipulation. Jessica shares her goals for the future, including continuing her work with Sister Sister and providing free workshops.

Takeaways

Building a strong online presence through a website is essential for photographers, as it provides a platform that you own and control.

Inclusivity and kindness should be prioritized in photography communities and groups, creating a supportive environment for photographers of all levels.

When shooting in a specific location, incorporating elements that are unique to that place can help capture its essence and create memorable photos.

Personal style and creative process are important aspects of photography, and photographers should strive to develop their own unique voice and vision.

The use of AI in photography can be both amazing and scary, and it's important to find a balance between utilizing technology and maintaining the authenticity of the art form. AI can greatly enhance the final product and save time for photographers.

Traditional photographers may view AI as cheating, but it is simply pattern recognition from their own catalog.

AI has both positive and negative effects in photography, with the potential for brands to replace photographers and models with AI-generated content.

AI can be used to expand photos and fill in missing elements.

There are concerns about the potential for photo manipulation with AI.

Jessica's goals for the future include continuing her work with Sister Sister and providing free workshops.

In-person events are valuable for building connections and community.

The conversation concludes with plans for a potential photoshoot in London and congratulations on Connor's upcoming baby.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Photography Preferences

01:01 Getting into Photography

03:09 Starting Build & Bloom

05:04 Photography Style and Equipment

07:40 Creative Process and Shooting Preferences

09:38 Importance of Website and Social Media

10:45 Finding Inspiration Offline

13:29 Build & Bloom and Sister Sister

19:18 Favorite Prompts for Couple Shoots

20:43 Advice for Pursuing Photography

23:47 Key Elements for a Photography Website

28:01 Capturing the Essence of New York in Photos

30:48 Favorite Season to Shoot in New York

34:27 AI in Photography and Future Goals