JaLynn West-Photography (See #20 on Map)

When does a portrait become an original work of art? When that portrait is taken by a professional artist who not only captures the image with a camera, but breathes life and personality into the faces of her subjects. It takes a keen eye, a passion for people, and a creative mind to accomplish. It takes the talent of JaLynn West.

JaLynn was a career school teacher when she discovered photography; it was just a hobby at first. But the hobby quickly became an obsession as she found herself creating original greeting cards that featured nature scenes and sending them to her friends and family.

In 1997, as the obsession turned into a passion, JaLynn left the classroom to develop her skills with the camera, and a new career had bloomed. Today, she is known as "an artist with the camera, creating a canvas of her customer's lives," and she has never been happier. JaLynn specializes in fine family portraits, including beloved pets, in a natural environment.

Every session starts with an extensive interview so that JaLynn knows exactly what the customer wants in the portrait. The occasion being captured, the clothing, the setting, and the attitude, and countless other details are addressed before the camera is set up. "It is these details that give the portrait a natural personality," said JaLynn. "Knowing that people are naturally uncomfortable in front of a camera, my challenge is to put everyone at ease and allow them to relax so that you can read their real personality in the eyes, smiles, and expression."

Nothing is left to chance. Whether shooting a large family for a portrait, corporate head shots, prom pictures, or sports shots, the method remains the same: learning and preparation, followed by instincts and creativity is the secret of a picture that speaks from the frame.

To see more of JaLynn's work, go to www.jalynnwest.com/