Summary of our conversation with Jennifer Zmuda

What happens when a lifelong dancer picks up a camera out of necessity and discovers a new calling? We sit down with Emmy-winning photographer and director Jennifer Zmuda to explore how a career that started with DIY promo shots for tight-budget performances grew into a creative agency serving dancers, arts organizations, and brands that value authenticity over trends.

Jennifer shares how dance training shaped her visual voice. She talks about feeling movement in her body, anticipating the precise moment to capture an arabesque or a fall, and translating that instinct into photography and film that looks intentional rather than lucky. We dive into her years at BalletMet, how institutional support helped her embrace video, and why the most compelling work comes from relationships, not transactions. Instead of chasing the blur fad or retro filters, she aims for honest images that serve story and marketing goals across websites, social media, and seasonal campaigns.

The conversation turns candid about business. Jennifer breaks down her shift from one-off projects to retainers that encourage strategy, iteration, and agility when seasons change. She outlines a practical pricing method built on line items—creative development, equipment, crew, post, deliverables—that protects against scope creep and educates clients. We talk imposter syndrome, critique culture, and the gaps many artists face around taxes, hiring, and systems. Her advice is grounded and actionable: seek mentors, keep learning in public, design services that match real client needs, and use your artistic background as a competitive edge in media production and content strategy.

If you care about arts entrepreneurship, creative careers, and the business of storytelling, this conversation is a masterclass in building a sustainable practice without losing your artistic core. Follow, share with a friend who’s pricing their first big project, and leave a review to help more artists find the show.