Paula Jackson: From Nursing to Photography

In the intricate dance of light and shadow, where emotions are captured and preserved for eternity, Paula Jackson's journey unfolds—a tale that bridges the compassionate realms of nursing to the expressive world of photography. With a spirit nurtured by her nursing career, Paula has infused her photographic work with the same care, attention to detail, and empathy that defined her former profession. Embracing the transformative power of photography in 2017, she has since been weaving stories of love, joy, and timeless moments through her lens. In this exclusive interview, Paula Jackson shares the path that led her from the halls of healthcare to the vast, vibrant world of wedding photography. She illustrates how her experiences have enriched her artistry and approach to capturing life's most precious milestones.

Discovering a Passion Beyond the Frame

“I have always loved photography,” Paula begins, reflecting on her journey into the photographic world. Despite her professional background in nursing, Paula's true calling was in capturing moments. “Professionally, I earned a degree in nursing but decided to follow my passion in 2017 as a full-time photographer,” she reveals, marking the start of an inspiring career shift that many dream of but few dare to make.

When asked about her photography style, Paula eloquently describes, “Candid editorial with a timeless aesthetic.” This approach allows her to create images that not only capture the moment but also tell a story, evoking emotions that resonate with viewers long after the photograph is taken.

The Tools That Capture the Magic

“The kind of equipment I use for my photography? Two Canon mirrorless cameras and a few film cameras,” Paula shares, highlighting her preference for gear that meets her needs for both modern digital and classic film photography. This combination allows her the versatility to capture the perfect shot in any setting, blending the old with the new in her unique photographic style.

The Joy of Photography

What Paula enjoys most about being a photographer is “the freedom to pursue my passion for creating art and traveling the globe while doing so.” This statement encapsulates the essence of what drives her as an artist — the boundless opportunity to explore, create, and immortalize moments of beauty and significance across the world.

Understanding her clients' visions is paramount to Paula's process. “With the first initial call, we go over my client's overall vision, and then we have a series of steps we take to ensure we’re both on the same page,” she explains. This methodical approach ensures that every shoot is a collaborative process, tailored to capture each client's unique story.

Weddings, Elopements, and Destinations

Paula's approach to weddings is as thoughtful as her photography, focusing on quality over quantity. “Typically, under 20 per year,” she says of her comfortable wedding count, ensuring a dedicated and personalized service for each couple. For Paula, customization is key. “All of my elopement packages are custom,” she adds, highlighting her flexibility and commitment to meeting her clients' needs.

Preparing for the Big Day

Preparation is crucial, not just for the couple but for the photography team as well. “Ensuring you have a solid team (planner, second photographer) is by far a very important factor in your day going smoothly,” Paula advises, underlining the importance of a well-coordinated team in executing the perfect wedding shoot.

A Love for Destination Weddings

“Yes! I love nothing more than being able to travel to document a wedding,” Paula exclaims when asked about destination weddings. Her favorite destination so far? “Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland,” she reveals, sharing her love for capturing love stories against some of the world's most breathtaking backdrops.

Paula Jackson's journey from a nursing professional to a full-time photographer is a testament to the power of following one's passion. Through her candid editorial style, she not only captures moments but crafts stories that linger in the heart. Her dedication to her art and her clients shines through in every frame, making Paula Jackson Photography a name synonymous with beauty, emotion, and timeless storytelling.

Paula's work is a reminder of the magic that happens when passion meets artistry, and her journey is an inspiration to anyone standing at the crossroads of career and calling. With each snapshot, Paula Jackson continues to capture the essence of life's most precious moments, inviting us all to see the world through her lens.