Jessica Preston starts up new Gympie business Wild Ivy Photography
A Gympie mother of two has an inspiring message to share after taking a leap of faith in turning her newfound passion into a profession.
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It took 31 years for Gympie woman Jessica Preston to discover her passion of capturing life through photos and this year she has taken her hobby one step further in making photography her career.
The mother of two said she has always loved taking photos and documenting special moments, but after purchasing a camera 12 months ago she taught herself to take more professional shots.
“I am one of those people that have to pull over when driving if they see that the sky is a beautiful colour or wildflowers are in bloom,” Ms Preston said.
Ms Preston took a leap of faith and started up her photography business Wild Ivy, named after her late grandmother, Ivy.
“She was the kindest, most loving women I have ever known,” she said.
“When you were around Nanna you just felt happy and calm and that’s how I want people to feel around me.”
After starting out in June, Ms Preston has been blown away by the support from the Gympie community.
“From the moment I started by business I have been taking bookings and doing shoots,” she said.
“I am busy and it is so amazing.
“I have already worked alongside some small businesses in town which I love … community is everything.”
Ms Preston said she has felt “every emotion” in the journey to starting her own business, but was excited for her new venture.
“I was very nervous and excited all at once,” she said.
“I am looking forward to meeting new people, capturing lasting memories for them and building a little empire for myself and my family.”
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Ms Preston said she would be forever grateful for people allowing her into their lives to capture them and doesn’t ever want to take that privilege for granted.
“I think I will be forever learning in this industry and I love that,” she said.
“If you find your passion and that thing that sets your heart on fire, go for it.”
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Originally published as Jessica Preston starts up new Gympie business Wild Ivy Photography
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