Today we’d like to introduce you to Deni Jo Baker (DJB Productions).
Hi Deni Jo, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My fascination with photography started from a young age. I remember “playing” national geographic with disposable film cameras as a young child. As a teen, it
became almost a therapeutic practice after the passing of my father. Anytime I felt angry or sad, I would go to outside with a little point & shoot camera and focus my mind on something outside of myself – searching for a new perspective. It didn’t matter what it was – rocks, spiders, flowers, sunsets, caterpillars, whatever. I enjoyed the challenge of taking a simple object and making it into something more. Often saying to myself, “Anyone can take a photo of something breathtaking, but it takes an artist to see the beauty in simplicity.”
Adult life directed my attention away from photography for a while and focused on other things; a brief musical college experience, odd jobs, and love. One day, my mother handed me an envelope with $300 dollars and told me to go pick out a nice camera. Researching until I found a kit that was almost in budget, I put some of my own cash towards it – finalizing the purchase of my first ever DSLR.
Fast-forward a couple of years; I was balancing my business part time with other jobs, too nervous to take the plunge in only relying on photography as my primary income. Until one day things changed, my spouse encouraged me to go for it. I mean, what was the worst that could happen? I would have to get another job if things didn’t take off?
Today, I am happy to say my business is growing faster than ever.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Having a business comes with different challenges. There will be times when you are overwhelmingly busy and struggling to meet deadlines. Other times work will be slow, meaning less income. I encourage anyone starting a business of their own to keep this in mind. Balancing your finances is extremely important. Every challenge you face will always be rewarding, even if those rewards are not always monetary.
We’ve been impressed with DJB Productions, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At DJB Productions we welcome a wide variety of opportunities. Currently, the majority of our business is focused in photography but we also offer videography, design, photo restorations, printing services, custom slides shows, photobooths, and more. We photograph everything from Weddings, Portraits, Live Music, Businesses, to Non-Profit Events.
Instead of forcing a particular look, we allow the environment to set the feel of our photography. This allows the galleries to more accurately represent the moment, keeping the memories true. If a client asks for a specific style, of course, we tailor to their desires. We enjoy taking artistic liberties when they are appropriate.
As for what we are most known for, the compliment we receive the most from our clients is that we make people more comfortable in tense situations.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
When I am going through photos after a shoot, I always make mental notes – and sometimes physical notes – about how my employees or I could have improved. My ambition to continuously improve and reach new heights has played a very important role in the success of my business.
Contact Info:
- Email: productionsbydeni@gmail.com
- Instagram: @djbproductionstexoma
- Facebook: @djbproductionstexoma
Image Credits
DJB Productions
