Emily Jenks is a San Francisco-based family photographer (www.emilyjenks.com) and serves on the board of the Golden Gate Mothers Group as the director of kids activities and social events.
What types of stories, trends or opportunities are you focused on right now?
Anything and everything. I spend a lot of time fielding questions from clients, such as what to wear for photoshoots, how to prepare for photoshoots and how to pose. I would love to provide all of that to my clients in writing before the shoot! Also, I am starting to combine my travel blogger side with my photography business and writing about the best photoshoot locations – including what to expect when you get there (parking, backdrops, etc.) and permit needs.
Describe one of the wackiest or most unusual ideas you’ve recently worked on.
I like ideas or pieces of writing that are really personal, such as the one I wrote about “5 things you must do in your 20s before getting married and having kids.” (Hint: I talk about laser hair removal!).
What elements or characteristics do you look for in a story?
Informative but fun. With so much information out there nowadays, people barely read and skim for information, so I want a story to be super informative. I like a resource piece that I can keep referencing back to. Bonus points if it makes me chuckle while I’m learning.
What story or stories are you most proud of?
I’m really proud of my posts on my family travel website, Henry and Andrew’s Guide, such as “60+ kid friendly wineries in the San Francisco Bay Area.” I did so much research (called 250+ wineries!) and people really find informative. Another one I like was “Tips on Going to Hot Air Balloon Festivals with Kids” which was published on the Lonely Planet Kids Blog.
Tell us about your dream assignment.
Basically, anything and everything Anthony Bourdain did, but do it with my husband and kids. Eat, drink, travel, play, explore, photograph, document and write – the dream.
Finish this sentence: If I am not reporting I am…
Being a mom, wife, sister, daughter, friend, attorney, photographer, board member, traveler… I think that’s it!
What advice do you have for PR professionals who want to pitch you?
Be nice! This is all I ever ask from anyone I work with. Be a nice person, communicate nicely and know that the person you are speaking to on the other end has emotions just like you. Oh, and don’t steal images. I’ve had way too many people use my images without credit and that’s just stealing – and not nice.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Hiroshima, Japan so I am fluent in Japanese. And thanks to a great community in San Francisco, so are my kids. I have lived in the SF Bay Area since high school and absolutely love it here! I love exploring this beautiful area with my Nikon camera and my family, sharing all the adventures families can have. I started my photography business because I love capturing every stage of a person’s life with the things that matter most to them. Whether it be themselves (I am all about self-love!), their kids, their spouse (or spouse to be), friends, anyone and anything! It’s an amazing privilege and honor.
If you have a question for Emily, comment in the box below or message her on Instagram @emilyjenksphotography.
Thanks, Emily! Who knew there were kid friendly wineries?!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Emily. With visual communications becoming more and more important, your skills are going to stand you in good stead.
Emily – I have so many thoughts about your responses. I was so happy to work with you on the opening of CPMC’s new hospital. Yes to laser hair removal (!!!), and I completely agree with your “be a nice person” request. We’re all just people trying to do our jobs. Being nice goes a long way in my book. I hope our paths cross again in the future because you were such a breeze to work with! ~Ashley