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In this feature, we will share information and images from photographers who are on our Professional Photographer Registry. That means that you can be sure that each photographer showcased here has been in business (legally!) for a minimum of three years, has a portfolio of professional level work that is technically sound, and is operating a business designed to be sustainable and profitable. In short, the photographers in our articles are operating their businesses with integrity, and dedication to preserving artistry in the photographic industry. If you are on our registry and would like to be featured, please email takeoffyourmommygoggles@gmail.com!
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JOY VERTZ – SHOOT THE MOON PHOTOGRAPHY
Our first Photographer Spotlight is an amazing woman who has built a booming business in just a few years, then somehow found the time to branch out to other photography-related ventures while running two high-end boutique studios in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area. Meet Joy Vertz, Professional Photographer and owner of Shoot The Moon Photography.
Like a lot of start-up businesses, Joy began her journey with a home studio. But with her strong business skills, it wasn’t long before she was ready to burst out of the basement. Here’s a little info about Joy and her incredible businesses!
Name: Joy
Nicknames(s): Queenie by my parents. Mumma by my kids.
Business: Shoot the Moon Photography, but I also moonlight with ProPhotoApps and do photography business mentoring and education with Adventures in Bokeh.
Tell us about your studio(s): I run two boutique style studios on the north and west side of Milwaukee, WI. Each studio is around 3500 square feet but both have distinctive looks. Our studio in Mequon WI (Northshore of Milwaukee)was opened in 2005 and features two studio rooms, one for strictly studio lighting, and the other for studio lighting and natural lighting with a 10×10 window. We specialize in children, families and graduation images at that location. Our studio in Delafield, WI (Lake Country) was opened in early 2009. Shoot the Moon employs 12 people, including digital artists, support staff, and 5 photographers.
Tell us about the style of portraits your produce for your clients: When we began, we were creating more whimsical and playful photos, but recently have begun to mix more classic elements, beautiful studio lighting and more careful posing. There are more photographers in the market place and being able to be successful with studio lighting techniques sets our work apart.
Are you a self taught photographer, or did you have formal instruction? I have a degree in Studio Art from Lawrence University and studio printmaking, painting and photography
What products that you produce completely knock your client’s socks off? We sell canvas wall groupings to 75% of the clients that walk through our doors. We effectively tell them WHY they are such a great investment (because they read as one art piece, and can be moved and rehung should our clients needs change). We also sell tons of beautiful image boxes.
What’s your favorite thing about being a photographer? I love snuggling all of the little ones. It makes it easier to only have two of my own and be happy snuggling the newbie babies and then sending them home! I love that we are creating amazing art pieces that will be priceless to generations.
Least favorite thing? dirty camera sensors and crusty noses to photoshop….. and green peppers. My husband paid me $50 once to eat a slice of green pepper. gag.
What are people surprised to learn about you? People are often surprised to find out that I spent 10 years in prison. Just kidding. Actually, I have terrible insomnia and most nights am awake at 2am. I watch entirely too much TV trying to fall asleep. If you are awake at 2am.. text me. We can chat online. I also love surprises. It makes my day when I get a little treat, surprise or present and because of this, I’ve been known to dole out random little treats to the people in my life unexpectedly.
Who do you wish you could photograph – and why? I would love to photograph famous drag queens! I think they are flamboyant and fun.. their personas tell a story and their makeup is flawless!
Because running two full time studios is clearly not enough for you to do, tell us about your other businesses:
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