I’m Jill Vander Zwaag.

I’m looking at you and I love what I see.

Jill VZ Photography.jpg — I make portraits of extraordinary high school seniors — like you.

I create an environment where you can be yourself - silly, moody, emotional, playful - and I document who you are in that incredible moment ***so you never forget it.***
My ideas are tailored just for *you* and who you are.
Together, we’ll create images you can’t wait to show *everyone*.

Belief Statements

I believe that everyone has a unique personality and that I have a unique way of capturing your individuality.

I believe that we get to make the rules as we go along; that we get to choose and create the memories that are waiting to happen.

I believe in having fun. Lots of fun. Always. In all ways.

I believe that teamwork and inspiration go hand-in-hand to produce personal works of art.

I believe that connecting with others in meaningful ways is my superpower.

I believe that God made everyone unique and amazing and it’s my life’s goal to help you see the best part of yourself.

I believe that by showing you how the light catches in your eyes when you smile or when you’re just about to burst into laughter will help you see yourself the way that others do.

I believe in fierce expression . . . and in showing the world exactly how you feel in that moment.

I believe beauty isn't a standard, that it is evident in every soul, radiating from every smile and emanating from every knowing glance; not because of a look, but because of the person.

I believe in possibility. For everyone. You can always become who you want to be.

In my 12+ years as a photographer, I’ve learned three things:

photo shoots rarely go exactly as planned (just how I like it!);

finding the unique beauty in the seniors I photograph is what I love best about what I do;

and no two photo shoots are ever the same.

Most clients tell me that they’re uncomfortable in front of the camera.

If you’re nodding along and whispering, “Me too!” I’ve got you covered. I’m with you every step of the way to make sure you’re comfortable and look completely natural, as if we were hanging out together (what I like to call the “unposed pose”).

All you need to do is show up; I’m a pro at bringing out your personality and showing you all the ways you shine.

I’ve photographed over 900 seniors, and I will document the real you in a way that is truthful and honest in photographs that you’ll love.

I believe in unique, relaxed, and non-over processed photographs, which is why we get to know each other before your photo shoot to discuss what you hope to get from your session.

I’ve learned how to improvise when the weather turns or a location isn’t ideal, but my favorite thing to do is spend time at the end of each session relaxing, playing, and experimenting.

Because that’s where real magic can happen.

If “predictable,” “posed,” and “staged” aren’t on your portrait wish list, I’m the photographer for you.

In this world where everyone seems to only show the highlight reels of their lives on social media, I believe we’ve all become too focused on comparison and perfection.

Let’s get real, together.

Want to know more?

Have you checked out the details page yet?

Find out more about the Jill VZ experience, or contact me today to book your session!

the Jill VZ experience

Session Inquiry

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