Reflecting on JSP in 2026: Changes, Constants, and Future Vision for the Studio and Site.

As I enter this new year, I'm reflecting on the changes and constants at JSP. It's a time to appreciate the journey so far and consider future directions I need to plan. I feel this year is a big year for myself. It's definitely going to be a big decision making year and growth. Even if that growth, looks different than the word and definition in itself. Growth for me this year I think is going to be taking a step back, not taking a step forward. I will still be growing, just inward vs. outward.

Moving Forward in 2026

One recurring idea I keep having is refreshing my website's appearance. I think I would like to just try and sale my photography and art on the site vs. doing portrait sessions. I would like to add to my site more options to purchase art, but I'm not sure it would even sale. I might just do a portfolio to showcase my photography. I love making images, it helps me process life and all its challenges, I don't want to stop creating. But I might have to stop the sales. I've been contemplating to just have an online presence to sale my custom art and prints for awhile now. Maybe do a couple farmers markets or trade shows. Or I might not even keep any of it going. With AI at everyone's fingertips, what is the point of custom art or photography period. It all seems so up in the air, and its getting harder and harder to compete with Amazon, Shein, Temu, etc. where art is replicated by the hundreds and sold for nothing. I totally understand everything is super expensive these days. So I must also embrace the super expensive costs as a business owner. It cost money to run a website along with have items for sale that don't sale. So it brings me back to the point of maybe 2026 is the year for complete closure.

I was planning my first event at JSP in May, but I have chose to cancel the event. There's been no interest when I posted about it before, so I think it best to table that idea. I thought about having a Regency/Victorian era inspired real life tea party. Where I sold tickets to the the exclusive event. I was going to provide the costumes for dress up, and have actual tea and finger foods. With fun games, and prizes. Followed up by group photos of the tea party and then the ticket holders own personal photo shoot. It sounded so fun and dreamy in my mind, but when I tried to advertise it and get it out there, I don't think I accomplished my ideas. I had no interest, I even originally posted it on Facebook events, and nothing. Crickets'

I did kick around an idea of subscription boxes for a while. I thought about making handmade soaps and candles. But have it reflect my photography. For example how does the season Autumn make you feel, the smells, the coziness, the sights. All in a photo that represents itself as a candle or soap. I thought it would be neat, since you cant actually smell what the photo is showcasing. But I've received no interest or feedback and while researching this endeavor the cost of goods would be high to actually start this project. So if there is no interest, I don't want to fall on my face yet again. So I'm scratching that project as well from 2026 and going forward. Unless somehow I can get it off the ground with the right amount of interest.

Additionally, I'm considering CLOSING the studio in Weeping Water. This would mean, I am no longer taking portrait sessions. And will not have an actual brick and mortar studio. You might even see a For Sale or For Rent sign in the window. Who actually knows, it definitely is a contender.

With all that being said

If I do close the studio, which is more than likely. I am going to have a studio sale. I have props and items that I would like to try and sale. My loss is someone else's gain! I will post the items for sale in the near future. Along with times and dates to come see it all. I will also except offers. I do plan on keeping all my camera gear and lighting gear, sorry that is sacred and I can use it all just like I did before opening up a studio.

Now what to do with the Building at 103

This is a hard one here. I own the building. So I was maybe thinking renting it out to other business's or selling it. The building is a great little building. When we first purchased it, it was in need of a remodel and repairs and we did just that! What ever I chose I will let you know. If you might be interested in renting it of buying it shoot me an email.

Here's to 2026

Dear 2026 I can't wait to see what you have planned for me. I'm looking forward to a slow down, get back to my roots. I would like to garden, do a few DIY home remodels, get back to why I love photography in the first place. Definitely read more, I love books! Travel. Self reflect and document my days with out the pressure of a sale or a session. I guess this is a New Year.

Take Care,

Jennifer