Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Irizarry.
Hi Jenna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve had a camera in my hands for as long as I can remember. Even as a child, I was always taking photos and documenting the people and moments around me. Photography was something I loved long before I ever considered it as a career.
When my daughter, Freya, was born, we had her newborn photos taken by a professional photographer. Watching that experience unfold, and seeing the images afterward, completely changed something in me. It made me realize that photography wasn’t just about taking pictures; it was about preserving memories and telling stories. That session solidified my desire to turn my lifelong passion into a career.
Today, I specialize in photographing families, newborns, and couples, creating images that feel genuine, connected, and timeless.
I feel incredibly lucky that what started as a childhood hobby has grown into a business that allows me to preserve some of life’s most meaningful moments for other families.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like many small business owners, I’ve worn every hat imaginable, from photographer and editor to marketer, accountant, and customer service representative. Building a business while raising a family has been one of the biggest challenges, especially in the early years.
There were also times when I struggled with self-doubt. It’s easy to compare yourself to others in a creative industry and wonder if you’re good enough or if you’re doing enough. Learning to trust my own style and build a business that reflects who I am has been a journey in itself.
That said, every challenge has helped me grow, not just as a photographer, but as a person. Looking back, the difficult seasons taught me resilience, and they make me appreciate how far I’ve come.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in family, maternity, newborn, and couples photography, with a focus on genuine connection and emotion. My sessions are relaxed and guided, allowing families to interact naturally rather than feeling like they’re standing in front of a camera. My goal is always to create images that feel authentic and tell a story.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. Many families return year after year, allowing me to document everything from maternity announcements and newborn sessions to birthdays, milestones, and beyond. Being invited into those important moments is something I never take for granted.
I think what sets me apart is my ability to make people feel comfortable. Most of my clients tell me they’re awkward in front of the camera, but by the end of their session they’re laughing, connecting, and genuinely enjoying the experience. As a mom myself, I also understand that real life is beautifully imperfect, especially when children are involved. Instead of chasing perfection, I focus on capturing authentic moments that families will cherish for years to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.freyabear.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/freyabearphotography
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/freyabearphoto
