Meet Erin Jones | Photographer & Video Creator |. Reiki Energy Healing

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Throughout my career, I worked for small and large businesses. I think I always believed I could run my own business, and so that’s what I did. I always enjoyed having multiple clients, versus one. I have always enjoyed the flexibility with my schedule, and I have ALWAYS wanted to create beautiful artwork and share it with the world in service of promoting businesses that help people and the environment.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

It was in high school that I started to gravitate towards a passion in photography. I had a dark room before going digital and worked with an SLR first gen camera for 10+ years, before starting my own photography and creative design business in 2012. Years later, after traveling through SE Asia, I studied reiki, yoga, meditation as well as “Sanskrit” and other ancient healing practices. This connection to spirituality then led me onto the path of supporting those in the Healing Arts industry.

I think one of the hardest things is to realize your worth. In this profession, it is easy to get caught up in the “love” of it [which is awesome] however other tasks such as administration duties, implementing systems, self discipline and workaholic tendencies can make that work / life balance difficult. (remove paragraph return)
It’s easy to get stuck in service, but you also need to remind yourself, that you are running a business.

Life may seem chaotic, because no week is the same, but I make sure I find my moments or days of down time. For example, if I work the weekend, I will lighten up on Monday/Tuesday. I’m not someone that has found success in a regimen. I just have to go with the flow; trust and listen to my body and when it’s time for a rest…I rest. I am aware how important the alignment of my body, mind and soul connection is and ultimately, that is what’s going to give my clients the best product and experience.

My mom was a super hard worker, and my dad, always string perfection, so my belief system from an early age, was to have that drive to do whatever it takes, and do it right. I am finding, however, as I age it is important to schedule in breaks and stick to them. I am OK with giving myself permission to rest, as I have lived through burnout before and it is very hard to recover from.

I think balance is personal to each individual. It’s about balancing the values that you hold dear to your heart. My values are exploring, healing and giving people a memorable experience and creating beautiful art. I have a willingness to do the work; internally and externally.

I have worked really hard to create a unique, photography experience. Mentorship has been consistent and without it, I wouldn’t know how to level up in this industry. I am offering this service to those who are seeking empowerment and creative expression. I observe their actions, their words, their flow and intuitively, I capture their essence through the magic of art. My outcome is to deliver exactly what the client requests, and more, wrapped up in a whole lotta love!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We’d probably visit a yoga session at Shuniya Yoga. Have lunch at Casa de Luz.
Visit the greenbelt for a small hike.
Swim at Barton Springs.
Regroup at home, and pack a picnic made by Central Market or Whole Foods.
Venture to Mount Bonnell for a sunset view and snack time.
Maybe set a dinner date at any number of awesome restaurants around Austin. (Aba, Opa, ABGB, Deckhands, Cafe Malta, Whip Inn,)
Probably catch some live music at C Boys or 3Ten ACL.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mother first and foremost taught me to believe in myself. She always said I could do anything I set my mind to and that sort of programming really works. She always knew I needed to be creative, and after college she continued to point me in the direction of continuing my higher education in terms of UT extension classes for Photoshop, Illustrator and more. She also taught me that I could be creative with clients, with their expectations and how to go above and beyond to stand out in business. I still apply so much of what she taught me to my everyday client experiences.

Lyn Graft a Video Producer who believed in me as well, introduced me to one of my first mentors, Jared Tennant, whom I consider to be one of the best photographers in Austin. His drone shots are next level. I’m extremely grateful for the time and insight he shared to help me get up and going. He assisted with equipment and software tips and tricks as well as client management. He trusted me early on, as a second assist or to take over a job when he was unavailable.

Ben Godkin is another stellar photographer that I now consider a close friend. Working with him is always an inspiration. His knowledge of equipment and reading light is something I try to soak up every time I’m working with him.

Trent Grogan also gave me the confidence to admit I was an artist. Many of my first gigs were working with his team, and he helped me to further trust my instincts and lean into my artistry. He introduced me to on-the-go flash photography in combination with portraits.

Ambrosia Matthews helped me gain confidence in my intuitive gifts and sharing them with the world. She helped me bridge my two favorite mediums: photography and energy healing.

Rachel Hague and Sam Conaway, of EmpowHer, have been the best hype coaches I could ever ask for. Without their assistance through burnout and helping me release imposter syndrome so I could connect with my true visions again, I don’t think I’d be where I am!

I’m forever grateful for all many of my mentors. There’s so many more to add to this list.

Website: https://pranaportraits.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pranaportraits

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/prana-portraits/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/pranabyjonesie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pranaportraits

Other: www.pranabyjonesie.com