I am the owner of Jessica Neumann Photography, which I officially started in 2010. I own a studio in New Market, MD, off 7th alley, providing studio and outdoor photography. My photography journey started fairly straightforward as a newborn and maternity photographer and has morphed through the years to incorporate animals, headshots, families, high school seniors, cake smashes, fitness, and so much more! My business’s transformation is partly due to following my clients and their needs through the years. I have been fortunate to meet so many unique and exciting people.
My husband, David, is a long-time “numbers guy” who works part of the time out of our home and part of the time making the terrible trip down 270 to DC. My son, Graham, is getting ready to enter Linganore High school this year and enjoying his first new job this summer at Prospect Pantry, and working out at his favorite local gym. My daughter, Greta, is entering 7th grade at New Market Middle and spends most of her spare time at her gym as a competitive gymnast. Not to be forgotten are our two pups, Tracker & Lana.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I graduated college from Towson University and chose my major as more of a process of elimination than going after a passion. I switched my major many times and eventually landed on Economics. Economics was the easy answer since I had already taken most of the classes needed, and it came easy to me. It is not the typical college story, but it worked for me. It gave me a solid foundation in business which I have used in many forms in my jobs through the years. I started at an IT staffing company on the corporate side and quickly made my way through the ranks over the six years I was there. I was a Sr. Manager of Operations for a couple of years, which mainly consisted of contract negotiations, building relationships with our regional sales teams, and managing an accounts receivable team. When my son was born, I decided to stay home and focus on raising him. I quickly discovered that I cannot sit still and need to be learning or stimulating my mind. This drive for a challenge led me to dive into all things photography. I am self-taught, besides a few specialized workshops I have attended. The rest is history. I also co-own a plant store, BUDS Plant Boutique, here in New Market.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Frederick since 2010 and moved to our historic home on Main St in 2014. My studio was located down the street next to The General Store for about four years. After that, I renovated a building on our property to home my dream studio.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Not sure I could choose just one . . . between the neighbors and business owners, we have an amazing, eclectic group of individuals.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
My advice about owning your own business is to have a plan but be willing to adjust. Hold yourself to high standards and values, and make sure you portray yourself and your business as you want others to view you.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel! From tropical to educational, I have many places I want to explore.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My favorite thing about this town is how hard everyone is working to reinvigorate it. Homeowners are putting in the sweat and hard work to improve and maintain their historic properties, which is no easy task. Business owners are working their butts off, taking risks, and putting in the time to create fresh new businesses and get New Market on the map again.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Enjoying a thriving New Market community.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I used to be a high school and college cheerleader- ha!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Ireland or Hawaii . . . both are amazing in their own regards.
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
I would have to say June or July. I love vacations, warm evenings, and crab feasts.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
DOGS. All of them.
Q: What person, event or experience has made the greatest impact or inspiration in your life?
My children have challenged and changed me. Having kids has made me realize the parts about myself that need improvement, and I strive to be better every day for them.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfort, love, family
