Photography: Is It a Passion or a Profession?

Any profession can be either a labor of love or simply a means to ensure financial stability. From my observations, many people pursue careers not out of passion but out of necessity. They often find themselves in roles dictated by convenience, circumstances, or practicality rather than a genuine calling. I call these “convenience jobs,” as opposed to “destined professions.”

This often happens because of a lack of proper guidance, especially during formative years. Parental involvement plays a critical role in shaping one’s path. A convenience job is like an arranged marriage, while a job rooted in passion is akin to a marriage born of love.

Photography, like any artistic profession—and perhaps more than most—should be fueled by passion. Not just any passion, but one that evolves, deepens, and continuously drives creativity and excellence.

When I was still in school and university, I was much like any other gifted, artistic young girl: bursting with energy and involved in countless activities. I took piano lessons, attended dance classes, sketched portraits, participated in scouts, and even worked at a television station editing and creating small promos. My creativity was boundless, and I eventually pursued a degree in movie directing at university.

But my enthusiasm for so many things left me stretched too thin. Despite being naturally talented, I was mediocre in everything because I was trying to do too much. It’s impossible to excel at 100 things simultaneously.

One day, my father gave me advice that changed everything. He told me to focus on one artistic pursuit and dedicate myself entirely to it. Observing that my hyperactive nature wasn’t suited for directing, he gently guided me toward photography. Reluctantly, I let go of many of my passions. I left scouts, abandoned my love for dance, stopped my piano lessons, and stepped away from editing.

My father then took decisive steps to help me. He found me a personal photography teacher, bought me the best camera available at the time, and even arranged for me to work for free with a few photography companies. I became the family photographer, never missing an opportunity to capture moments for my friends and relatives, often without charging a penny.

My father went above and beyond to nurture my interest. He constantly brought me books, magazines, and resources about photography, keeping me updated on the latest trends and equipment. Knowing I wasn’t an avid reader, he would read them himself and summarize the key points for me.

Without his guidance, I might have continued spreading myself thin, gifted but mediocre in everything. Instead, his unwavering support helped me channel my God-given talents into a single, focused pursuit.

It wasn’t long before I began freelancing with top companies in Lebanon, the Middle East, and even Europe. Within just a few short years, I surpassed the companies I had initially volunteered for, carving out a name for myself in the industry.

When I married my wonderful husband, Bob, he was struggling in his career as an electronic engineer. Despite earning two master’s degrees from a prestigious university, he was unhappy in his work and barely making ends meet. His job was clearly one of convenience, not passion.

One evening, as we watched a movie as a family, my father noticed Bob’s keen eye for detail and passion for visuals. Surprisingly, he was the only one to see it—even I hadn’t noticed. My father then proposed a wild idea: Why should Bob continue working in a field he didn’t enjoy? Why not resign and dedicate himself entirely to learning photography and videography?

At first, the idea was met with resistance from the family. But Bob liked the challenge and decided to take the leap of faith. He resigned from his job, and with my father’s encouragement, our home transformed into a studio and workshop. After months of hard work, practice, and persistence, Bob emerged as an exceptional videographer and drone operator.

Within a year, Bob was earning five times what he had made before. Together, we gave “Jennifer Joe Photography” a major boost. God also blessed us with a great team. Today, as freelancers, we balance our time between work and family, traveling across Lebanon, the Middle East, and beyond.

God blessed us with a beautiful son, and our lives have been enriched in ways we never imagined. We love our work—not as a mere profession but as a passion that consumes us and positively impacts our family.

Sometimes, I wonder: Had my father not encouraged me to pursue photography, or had my husband not dared to change his career, where would we be today?

A Message for Parents

If you’re a parent reading this, spend time with your children. Even from a young age, observe their interests and passions. Invest in helping them nurture those passions and guide them in the right direction.

A Message for Those Seeking Fulfillment

If you’re someone stuck in a job you dislike, take the time to discover what moves you. Dare to change the course of your life, even if it feels uncertain. It may take time, but when you follow your passion, the blessings will far outweigh the risks.

I hope this article inspires and encourages you to pursue your passion, wherever it may lead.

-Jennifer Joe

Why Do People Suddenly Get Paranoid During a Photo Shoot?

Have you ever noticed how even the coolest, most composed individuals can suddenly turn self-conscious when asked to participate in a photo shoot?

The mere presence of a camera seems to spark an almost instinctive reaction: they stiffen up, their behavior becomes awkward, and they seem unable to act naturally. It's as if the camera lens has the power to strip away their confidence.

When I’m managing a shooting event with my team—be it a wedding, a major event, or a specialized photoshoot—there’s one thing that unnerves me more than anything else: people who don’t know how to behave naturally in front of the camera.

I have complete confidence in my team, my equipment, and my ability to secure perfect lighting and angles. Yet, when the key subjects—like the bride and groom, for instance—become camera-shy or overly self-conscious, it can create a nightmare scenario. Their discomfort can ripple through the shoot, affecting the energy, flow, and ultimately, the final product.

This isn’t just a minor inconvenience. When the primary subjects of a project struggle to feel at ease, the overall quality of the photos and videos can take a serious hit. And in an industry like ours, where reputation hinges on delivering perfection, that’s a risk I can’t afford to take.

For many, this unease doesn't end once the photo is taken. Instead, it often escalates as they critique the final image. They scrutinize themselves relentlessly, convinced they look terrible, while others in the same photo appear effortlessly poised.

This phenomenon stems from more than just vanity—it’s about perception and the pressure to present oneself in a specific way. The good news? Being photogenic isn’t about having "perfect" features or fitting into narrow beauty standards. It’s about understanding how to project confidence on camera and accentuating your best qualities.

How To Get Over The Fear Of Being In Front Of The Camera:

If you’ve ever dreaded being in front of the lens, don’t worry! Here’s a practical guide to help you look and feel your best in photos:

-Know Your Angles

-Experiment with poses:

Practice in front of a mirror to identify your “good side” or the angles that complement your face. Tilting your head slightly, rather than facing the camera head-on, tends to be flattering for most people.

Avoid straight-on shots:

Standing at an angle or slightly turning your shoulders can add dimension, helping you look more natural and relaxed.

-Relax Your Face and Body

Practice softening your expression:

Slightly squinting your eyes (smiling with your eyes), can make a big difference in conveying warmth and confidence.

Loosen up your body:

Instead of holding your body stiff, relax your shoulders and avoid pressing your arms against your torso. This helps avoid the “tense” look and gives a more graceful silhouette.

-Use Good Posture

Stand tall:

Good posture helps improve your overall silhouette and confidence. Roll your shoulders back and elongate your neck slightly.

Engage your core:

Engaging your abdominal muscles and maintaining a slightly lifted chest can help create a poised appearance.

-Play with Props and Backgrounds

Incorporate elements in the background:

Lean against a wall, hold a cup of coffee, or interact with a nearby object. These elements make the photo look more candid and natura

Select a complementary background:

Choose settings that enhance your outfit or skin tone and don’t distract from you.

-Be Mindful of Your Expression

Smile naturally: Think of a happy memory or something that genuinely brings you joy before the photo. A real smile engages the muscles around the eyes and makes a big difference.

Try different expressions:

A subtle smile, a pensive look, or a small grin can work for different types of photos. Experiment to see what feels most comfortable and looks authentic.

-Use Makeup to Accentuate, Not Hide

Highlight features: Lightly highlight areas like the brow bones, cheekbones, and bridge of the nose. A bit of contour can add dimension that flatters under various lighting.

Avoid heavy makeup:

Opt for a natural look rather than overly heavy makeup, which can look harsh on camera.

-Choose Flattering Colors and Outfits

Coordinate with your background: Choose colors that complement your skin tone and suit the setting. If you’re in a lush green park, a pop of color can stand out beautifully.

Opt for classic silhouettes: Go for outfits that fit well and enhance your body shape, as these can make a big difference on camera.

-Be Confident and Have Fun

Confidence is the key to looking photogenic. Remember, a genuine smile and relaxed demeanor can outshine any technical tips.

Embrace imperfection:

Being photogenic is about celebrating who you are. Embrace the process, be yourself, and have fun with it!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to taking photos that highlight your natural charm. Whether for casual shots or professional portraits, a little preparation and confidence can go a long way in helping you look your best.

Have a look below at some of my photos of some professional media people:

I hope you enjoyed this article

Stay blessed

-Jennifer Joe

How To Become Photogenic

How to Fight For Your Vision

We live in a world of fierce competition, where compromise often feels like the easiest way forward. It’s tempting, isn’t it? To bend your vision or principles, especially when fear whispers that standing firm and your principles and values could cost you everything.

What if I don’t accept their terms, even though they’re riddled with vague clauses? I might lose the project.
What if I refuse to play along with the team’s or boss’s lies? They might never call me back.

I’ve been there—caught in that struggle, weighing the risks of holding on to what I believe versus letting it slip for the sake of convenience.

But here’s a truth I’ve learned from my father: fighting for your vision and values isn’t easy, and it never will be. Yet it’s the only way to stay true to who you are and what you stand for.

In the long term, when the noise settles, your reputation will shine. Those who compromised their principles, who took shortcuts or abandoned their values, will gradually fade from the picture. Integrity and principles might feel like a loss of opportunities at first, but they are, in reality, your ticket to long-lasting success.

When I find myself struggling with compromise, my father’s wisdom and unwavering support give me the strength to stand my ground.

It’s not easy. The internal struggle often feels endless, especially in my line of work. I’ve seen less competent people hired for roles I worked hard to earn. I’ve watched individuals I helped and cared for climb the ladder through lies and gossip. I’ve caught some cheating, and I’ve stayed silent, fearing that speaking out might cast me as a traitor.

The principles and values we were raised to honor weren’t meant to be abandoned when life gets hard or the stakes feel too high. They’re the foundation of our identity—the compass guiding us through a world that constantly tests our resolve.

I think many of you, like me, face this battle regularly. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about refusing to let fear dictate your choices. It’s about reminding yourself that staying true to your principles may cost you in the short term, but the reward of integrity far outweighs any temporary losses.

So, keep fighting. Hold on to your vision. Honor the values that shaped you. When you look back on your journey, the moments where you stood firm will be the ones that truly defined your character.

— Jennifer Joe

Diving Into the World of Photography

You’ve probably heard the saying: A picture is worth a thousand words. For me, it couldn’t be truer.

As a photographer and videographer, my heart naturally leans toward photography. It’s more than just art—it’s my way of communicating, telling stories, and uncovering perspectives I might have otherwise missed.

Every photo has a story to tell.

A child laughing in the rain? It captures innocence, pure joy, and resilience.
A war-torn landscape? It speaks of unimaginable pain, profound loss, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Stepping into the world of photography feels like entering a magical realm where light, shadow, and emotion blend to create powerful visual narratives. And the best part? You never stop growing. Every day holds a new lesson, a new challenge, and another moment to see the world differently.

For me, photography is deeply personal—it’s about connection. With every click of the shutter, I’m freezing a moment in time, preserving a memory that words alone could never convey.

There’s something profoundly intimate about photographing people. Even without words, their posture, expressions, and body language speak volumes. I sense their joys, their struggles, and the stories they carry. A well-crafted portrait reveals the essence of a person, like a silent introduction to their soul.

When I photograph landscapes, I’m struck by the sheer grandeur of nature. It reminds me of the Creator’s brilliance, leaving me in awe and gratitude.

Even capturing something as simple as a dish of food takes me on a journey. I find myself wondering about the effort that went into preparing it, the creativity behind its recipe, and how it became part of the menu. Every element has a story, even in its quiet details.

And when I photograph a bustling street, my imagination takes over. I envision the lives of all the people who’ve walked those same paths—the couples celebrating their love, the weary soldiers returning home, the forgotten souls begging for help. Each street holds countless untold stories, etched into its history.

Photography allows me to be both an artist and a storyteller, sharing glimpses of life as I see it.

What makes photography even more special for me is how it strengthens my relationships. Whether it’s capturing engagements, weddings, or other milestones, I’ve been lucky to share in the joy of my friends and family. They know they can count on “their friend Jennifer” to immortalize their precious moments. Photography has become a beautiful way to stay connected, near and far.

The Endless Ocean of Creativity

Photography is an endless journey. There’s always something new to learn—a technique to explore, a fresh perspective to find, or a distant place waiting to be discovered. But it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about learning to truly see.

Every photo lets me experience life from a different angle. It’s like living moments twice—in a world of two dimensions, where emotion and memory intertwine.

So, grab your camera, open your heart, and let the adventure unfold.

The world is waiting to be captured, one frame at a time.

Your friend.

— Jennifer Joe

Hats Off to All Models

The world of modeling has always fascinated me. Since I was very young, I used to admire models on TV—the way they looked and walked. They seemed almost superhuman. When I grew up and became a photographer, I had the opportunity to work with numerous models during my travels. At first glance, I was mesmerized. Like many others, I envied their flawless appearance, confidence, and charisma. They seemed so effortless, always ready to strike the perfect pose in front of the camera—a photographer’s dream!

However, the more I dug into the world of modeling, the more I realized how far my initial perceptions were from reality. Behind the glamour and spotlight lies a life that is far from easy. Modeling demands an extraordinary amount of hard work, resilience, and sacrifice.

The Realities of Modeling

Through my conversations with models, I learned about the misconceptions surrounding their profession. People often assume that models live enviable, carefree lives filled with luxury and attention while offering beauty and elegance to the world and to themselves. But in truth, many models face significant struggles that most people are unaware of.

1. The Demands of Perfection

Maintaining the "perfect" body is often a painful and relentless pursuit. Some models resort to extreme measures to stay slim, which are as shocking as they are concerning:

Unusual Diet Practices: I once heard about models eating tissue paper or cotton balls soaked in juice to suppress their appetite without consuming calories. This disturbing practice, though rare, highlights the pressure to conform to unattainable beauty standards.
Dehydration for a Look: Before major events like fashion shows, some models drastically reduce their water intake to achieve a "leaner" appearance. This practice is not only unhealthy but dangerous.
Extreme Exercise Regimens: Some models wake up as early as 4 a.m. every day to run for hours before attending castings or shoots. The constant push to maintain a toned physique can be exhausting.

2. The Nomadic Lifestyle

One of the most challenging aspects of a model’s life is the constant travel. Models rarely stay in one place for long, moving from city to city, sometimes country to country, for castings, photoshoots, and fashion shows.
This transient lifestyle often leaves them isolated, homesick, and disconnected, with hardly any privacy. Some models have shared stories of spending their birthdays alone in a foreign city, isolated in a hotel room, unable to fly home or celebrate with friends.

3. Financial Uncertainty

Contrary to popular belief, not all models make a fortune. Many start their careers working for free or for very little pay, building their portfolios in hopes of landing a big opportunity. Even established models face dry spells between jobs, leading to financial instability.

4. The Dark Side of the Industry

Perhaps the most disheartening reality I discovered is the exploitation that some models endure. From unfair treatment by agencies to inappropriate advances by unscrupulous industry professionals, many models face situations that compromise their safety and dignity.
Some models have felt pressured to attend late-night "industry parties" where they were made to feel obligated to entertain influential guests to secure future jobs.

A Personal Reflection

As I got to know the world of modeling better, I found myself becoming increasingly grateful for my own career and life circumstances. Unlike models who often have no control over their schedules or locations, I work primarily in my home country, Lebanon, which is a small and familiar place that always feels like home. This allows me to enjoy a beautiful family life.

I travel within a manageable schedule. My husband and I work together, and while we’re away, our parents lovingly care for our baby. We are our own bosses, making decisions that suit our family and lifestyle.

This contrast has given me a deep respect for models and the challenges they face. Their work requires immense resilience, adaptability, and emotional strength.

To all the models I’ve worked with—and those I haven’t—I extend my sincere admiration. Your ability to endure rejection, face unimaginable hardships, and still show up looking confident and composed is inspiring. Your work is far more complex than many realize, and you deserve recognition for the effort and sacrifice it entails.

Thank you for sharing your strength and beauty with the world, and know that your contributions go far beyond what meets the eye.

A Shining Example: Winnie Harlow

One model who has redefined beauty standards is Winnie Harlow, a trailblazer in the industry and an inspiration to millions. Diagnosed with vitiligo at the age of four, Winnie faced bullying and rejection growing up, but she turned her unique appearance into her greatest strength. Discovered on the TV show America’s Next Top Model, she broke into the fashion industry, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the world.

Winnie has walked the runway for major brands like Victoria’s Secret, Tommy Hilfiger, and Fendi, and she has graced the covers of top magazines such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. In addition to her modeling achievements, she is a fierce advocate for body positivity and diversity in fashion, proving that beauty comes in all forms.

Her journey is a testament to resilience and self-belief, and she continues to inspire not only aspiring models but also anyone striving to overcome.