Hi! I’m Jill, owner, and photographer
at Jilly Bean Photography! I’m glad you are here!
Since you are at this site I’m going to assume we are a lot alike! First of all, I’m quite certain that we both love our family and we both love photography! I’m sure we both immensely value being daughters, wives, friends, sisters, aunts, and moms…. and I’m sure we both would rather spend the afternoon frolicking in a park with our children than doing laundry. But, let me tell you how I’m different, not only from you but from most photographers out there!
First of all, photography is my first love but a second career. In my LBK {Life Before Kids} I was an elementary school teacher. I taught both in the United States and abroad in South Korea and hold a Masters Degree in Educational Administration. Then something happened while living abroad and I was given one of the most important titles in the world, "Mom". While we were traveling extensively throughout Asia with a new baby I started taking photos, literally hundreds and thousands of photos (again, where I’m sure you and I are alike!). Now, these were not exactly professional photos in the least bit, but they were mine and I began to feel passionate about not only looking at the photos but actually TAKING them.
Fast forward many years, after a move back to the US, a baby sister for my son, and a holiday card I sent to my friends and family. We had just returned from a month-long trip to Alabama and Mexico and I put together a card of my children running in the surf at sunset, along with a portrait of each child. Then my phone began to ring. My friends and family members began telling me how much they enjoyed my card and one of my neighbors went so far as to ask me to take photos of HER kids! That’s when Jilly Bean Photography was born!
Those children in my first shoot are now 13 years older and I’m that much more experienced and educated as a professional photographer. If you are looking for a photographer who understands the dynamics of kids and families as well as the intricacies of photography and editing, then look no further than Jilly Bean Photography. I’ve photographed hundreds of newborns, children, and families and am absolutely passionate about what I do. Please explore the site and don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions, want to book a session, or need any additional information.
I’m honored that you’ve taken the time to read about me! I can’t wait to learn more about you!
Best,
Jill
"It's not enough to own a camera. Everyone owns a camera. To be a photographer, you must understand, appreciate,
and harness the power you hold!"
~ Mark Denman
What's in the name Jilly Bean?
This might be one of the most often asked questions! First of all, PLEASE call me Jill, not Mrs. Kuykendall, not Jilly, not Bean.... just Jill will suffice! I started this business 13 years ago when my children were 4 and 1. We had just moved back from living overseas for 5 years where I learned to document all things travel and our growing family. Combining my passion for photography and working with young families, I started JBP as "Jilly Bean" was a nickname several of my closest friends called me. I knew I needed a niche so clients would remember me- and Jilly Bean stuck! I've thought about changing my business name at least 100 times to something more typical in the industry (first and last name Photography), but I always go back to the saying, "Why blend in when I was born to stand out?!". Welcome to Jilly Bean Photography!
FAQ
Why Jilly Bean Photography?
A.Jilly Bean Photography has been in business by owner Jill Kuykendall for over 13 years. We are past our “growing pains” and just with any other profession, we continue to take workshops and classes to allow us to be at the forefront of current trends in photography. We set ourselves apart with unparalleled service, rapport and superb image quality. We pride ourselves on providing a service that goes beyond traditional “cookie cutter” studio photography; we help you every single step of the way which allows your photos to come out better than you could have ever imagined. Our level of expertise begins with the use of only high end professional equipment, and extends into our years of experience in the field of photography. As a mother and former classroom teacher, Jill understands the dynamics of newborns, young children, families and high school seniors. As a business owner, Jill understands what it takes to make a vision become a reality.
What is included?
A.A Pre-Consultation, the Photo Session, and the Personalized Online Gallery are all included in your session fee, in this sequential order. Please note that a lot of work happens outside of the photoshoot. Preparing for your session by the gathering of photography equipment and props, as well as location scouting all happen the before your Photo Session. After your Session all files are backed up and stored carefully two different ways. You will be presented with a minimum of 45 images which are individually hand-edited (no mass production here!). A two- hour photography session typically turns into 10 hours of “behind the scenes” work all BEFORE you even see an image. Completing custom product orders, processing, and packaging all take additional time. You are paying for much more than just the time spent with your photographer during your session.
What can I expect?
A.You can expect to have a blast! Sessions are not meant to be stressful in any means! Jill will work with you each and every step of the way. You can expect a variety of images ranging from traditionally posed to candid. In addition, you can expect consistent quality images that you’ve seen on the website and social media. Most importantly you can expect high quality Digital Portraits and products. We pride ourselves in providing not only an extraordinary photo experience, but superior image quality and high end prints and products.