Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Smith.
Hi Jen, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
This is a very condensed version of a much longer story, but I have long thought that the way you learn about something is to learn about everything except that. You develop your eye by seeing the world in fresh ways, and you develop your taste in design by learning about everything other than design.
My story began working for a record label. For years, I spent little stretches of time on the road with my husband and his metal band, quietly collecting images along the way. Even then, I was deeply drawn to interiors, and beautiful spaces have always held my attention. After photographing a wide range of subjects and events here in Tampa, I shifted my focus exclusively to shooting Interior Design about 14 years ago. Even that niche has evolved as well. At first, my service provided a way for the designer to share portfolio work, then became the easy answer to the content question, and now, for publication.
Styling felt like a natural extension of photography, which eventually led to taking on full-scale design projects of my own. We also have a custom print shop, offering pieces designed to complete a space. Those are available upon request.
As it stands today, Honey Lake Studio offers editorial Interior and Architectural photography, Interior Styling, and full-service Interior Design.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’d say that it has been a pretty smooth road. My ethos is that the work is always there. I’ve been fortunate to selectively prune my roster of clients in such a way that we can creatively schedule together (and reschedule if a rug doesn’t show up in time). Sometimes everyone is wrapping jobs at once, sometimes no one is. Sometimes my kids need me a little more, sometimes less, and I’ve got time to be busier later when they’ve flown the coop. I have found that there is never a shortage, as long as client relationships (for both photography and design) are strong.
We’ve been able to grow at a pace that feels right for this stage of life, and add services over the years. There’s even one more in our back pocket for now. 😉
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an editorial photographer, specializing in Interior Design. What sets me apart is that I also provide styling on set. Most of the time, this looks like moving props 1/4″ at a time until it has optimum placement for the image. Then sometimes it means bringing the props and arranging the florals on site. Either way, every image should feel complete and lived in, as if someone has just left the room.
I like to imagine HLS as a place that supports Designers inside the industry in multiple ways, brings form and function (and a little edge!) home to others, and provides inspiration for everyone.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
I always think it would be so fun to photograph with another stylist working. Conversely, to style a home for a photographer who isn’t me! Of course, I will never tire of hearing from people ready to bring their favorite aspects of a hotel, outfit, color palette, or album into their homes.
Inquiries for all: [email protected]
Pricing:
- inquire for pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.honeylakestudio.com
- Instagram: @honeylakestudio
- Other: https://substack.com/@honeylakestudio?r=yc6xr&utm_medium=ios
Image Credits
Design credits, in order. all images by Honey Lake Studio
1 Honey Lake Studio
2 Oxford Design
3 Fresh Eyes Design
4 Practice LLC
5 Honey Lake Studio
6 Oxford Design
7 Lauren Leitner Design
