Jessica Uraneck Photography
Jessica Uraneck Photography
Emotive, Authentic & Timeless Images
for Maine Families
and Those Who Gather in the Pine Tree State
FREEPORT, MAINE
In this age of phone cameras, scrolling, video… AI... constant noisy media competing for our attention, there is something so comforting about a still photograph. One you print and hold in your hands, hang on your fridge, or keep on your desk at work. The photos that end up on shelves, walls, lockers, and tucked in wallets or between the pages of a book. To remind you of that time.
The art of freezing a moment, telling a story from a single frame, or preserving an emotion that will be felt through generations, is what has called me back to my camera throughout my life.
about
Photo Credit: Maine Tinker Photography
After a 15-year career in public education, I was one of the millions who stepped out of the workforce and into a caregiving role during the pandemic. At home with an infant and a toddler, I spent those early pandemic days outside, every day, watching my children soak up the world, documenting through whatever lens I had, and revisioning the next chapter of our lives.
That first COVID Christmas marked two years since my grandmother had passed away. No annual party was planned, instead, there was a parking lot meetup of aunts and uncles to swap gifts, and a copy of a photo album arrived on our doorstep. After my household was asleep, I put another log in the woodstove, wrapped up in a blanket, and opened the cover.
The first photo card she sent was in 1938, her last in 2018. Each card in between offers a glimpse of the year. I watched my aunts and uncles appear on the pages, first as babies in knit hats, then toddlers in farm flannel, white dresses, and patent leather shoes. There is a formal family portrait from 1961 where everyone is dressed sharp, my grandfather in his navy uniform. There are graduations, trips, weddings, grandchildren…Then, the first card without my grandfather. Each image is a flash of time. I can hear my grandmother’s laugh, feel her sturdy hug, smell her cooking. All from a photo.
There were many moments of reflection that led me to pursue photography professionally, but this one set things in motion. That album is a treasure, a source of comfort and connection, and a gift to future generations.
I knew that night that I could help families create the kind of images they would want for their own albums. The few chosen to highlight a year, showing future generations what it was like when… The kind of images that would bring comfort to a mother, wrapped up in a blanket in front of the woodstove, missing her grandmother, and finding connection in a photograph.
You can have a second calling
-Ludmila, Limerick
Jessica’s ability to make people feel at ease is exceptional. We felt comfortable during the entire session and she was able to capture the most natural smiles. The entire process from booking the session to getting the final portraits was seamless. We look forward to working with Jessica again!
-helen, lewiston
Our decision to select Jessica was an excellent choice. She was personable, responsive and always in the right place at the right time. Her photos captured the highlights of the events and also the joy and involvement of our guests. We would highly recommend her without reservation.
-Diane, Cape Elizabeth
Jessica was nothing less than fantastic! Her photos are wonderful and the patience she had dealing with all ages (including some very young) was amazing.
-Leah, Cumberland
We had such a relaxing afternoon with our family photo shoot. The setting was terrific and Jessica's calming presence and eye for a great picture captured beautiful moments that one didn't even know was happening. She made everyone feel at ease so that the smiles were genuine!! None of the pictures were staged .. fully genuine.
-Emma, Gorham
It was important for me to have a wedding photographer who could capture the small but meaningful moments and details of my wedding day. Jessica’s images are thoughtful, poetic, and poignant. They tell a story unique to each relationship. I will forever be grateful for the photos of my husband and I walking into our new life chapter together.
-Becky, Portland
We had an absolutely delightful experience! Jess is amazing at making everyone feel relaxed. watching my grandchildren jump into the photo session was a special memory. Jess is a professional that produces a photo collection that can bring you pure joy!
-Karen, freeport
My daughter had the most wonderful experience working with Jess for her senior photographs. She made her feel very comfortable and, as a result, the photos truly captured our girl! The composition of the photos brought tears to my eyes- lots of variety, a lovely balance of texture and color. Absolutely gorgeous!
Festivals, Markets, Community Events, Retirements, Reunions, Rites of Passage
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events
Maine Weddings & Elopements
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Weddings
Families of all sizes, Couples, Headshots, Graduation Portraits
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Portraits
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Families of all sizes
couples, headshots, graduation portraits
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When you are intentional about taking family portraits, it’s not only about the images, the whole experience becomes a memory for your family.
My job is to join you as you spend time together in a favorite Maine spot. Maybe it’s some place you are exploring for the first time, letting your kids run ahead, throwing the ball for your pup, or maybe it’s someplace sacred that you return to often. Wherever you choose, we’ll wander together, pausing along the way for poses in pretty spots, but mostly enjoying the experience.
My sessions are relaxed. If you have young children, I understand the challenges. Quite honestly, I understand the challenges that come along with full grown adults having their photos taken, too! I myself am quite shy when there is a camera around, feeling so much more comfort behind the lens. Whatever your comfort level, your family and your love is worth capturing, just the way you are.
I have a special interest in documenting intergenerational and caregiving relationships, and especially enjoy extended family sessions. Do you have a special Maine spot that holds meaning for your family? I’d love to meet you there. I often work with families who are gathering in Maine for reunions, vacations, or milestone celebrations. In joining you for an evening, we not only get to document your relationship with each other, but also your connection to place.
The families I work with wish to be captured just as they are at this moment in time. They prefer images that feel authentic, unfiltered, and timeless. On gallery delivery day, it is often the images that capture moments of laughter, connection or tenderness that they want to print. All images are delivered in both color and black and white so you can choose which version you like best.
Many families also use their time to update individual portraits or headshots. Although I tend to focus on the sentimental value portraits bring, especially for milestone moments like senior portraits or new job opportunities, having a professional photo readily available is also quite practical. They can be used for media profiles or upcoming educational, professional or social opportunities. They also make wonderful gifts for special people in your life!
- One-hour, outdoor or in-home shoot for up to six people. Ninety minutes for larger groups.
- Location of your choice within 25 miles of Freeport (greater distances may require travel fees)
- 40-50 thoughtfully edited images delivered via an online gallery
- Ability to purchase professional quality prints and wall art through my online store
- Pricing is based on number of people and ranges from $425–$675
- Signed contract and 50% deposit are required to reserve your date
portrait sessions include
Portraits
Finding a photographer who fits your style, comfort level, and budget can feel overwhelming, but the energy you spend making a good match now will help ensure your day is covered as you’d like.
I am a good fit for down to earth couples who want to spend their day experiencing, not posing, and prefer images that capture movement, interaction, and emotion.
The weddings I’ve photographed have been filled with laughter, embraces, and the kind of tears you want to feel. They’ve taken place beside the sea, in backyards, barns, summer camps, even a ballpark! Each celebration sacred, each gathering unforgettable.
There is something pretty special about drawing together people from all corners of your life, looking out and seeing them in one spot for a moment. It's a memory that will get called upon throughout life. Your images will bring you back.
The couples I work with can’t wait for this feeling of togetherness with the ones they hold most dear, and they don’t want to task their guests with taking photos. Most have viewed hiring a photographer as a luxury, but ultimately felt a sense of relief in knowing that the big moments and the details would be captured.
In addition to solo wedding and elopement work, I regularly second shoot for some of the most well known wedding photographers in Southern Maine. Although I do not display that work publicly, I'd be happy to share my growing wedding portfolio upon request.
I am a good match for couples who want a documentary style and appreciate a photographer who is unobtrusive. My approach utilizes natural light and, after a thoughtful editing process, you can expect a curated gallery with final images that are true to color and black and white.
You’ve decided to make a commitment that will shape the rest of your life.
Take a breath and soak that feeling in.
This is a time to be savored.
- 2-8 hours of wedding day coverage (with options to add on)
- 50-60 thoughtfully edited images per hour
- Online gallery that can be shared with family and friends
- Ability to seamlessly purchase professional quality prints, albums, and wall art through my online store
wedding collections include
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weddings & elopements
Put down your cell phone.
Be present for your guests and let me document the day you've worked hard to plan.
After all, these gatherings are meant to be enjoyed!
For family and community gatherings, these are the moments that will become a highlight of your year, or maybe even a season of life. Photography coverage will help capture the essence of this special time and it makes a great group gift for the person you are celebrating!
For business owners, in a world of scrolling, professional photos get noticed. Hiring a photographer not only takes the pressure off staff, it also ensures your event is documented in a way that elevates your brand.
Festivals, markets, community events, retirements, reunions, rites of passage
book now
- Online gallery that can be shared with guests
- Both full and social media sized images for easy printing and sharing
- Ability to purchase professional quality prints and wall art through my online store
- Pricing varies based on coverage needs, most clients spend between $450 - $1,200
Coverage includes
I cannot recommend Jessica Uraneck photography enough! Jess was our photographer for a fundraising event and she exceeded our expectations in every way. Not only did the photos come out even better than we hoped, but she was also extremely fun and professional to work with. Her turnaround time for the pictures was very quick as well! I am excited to work with her again in the future!
Joss, portland
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Events
We'll be in touch soon!
Thank you!
Let's get started.
A NOTE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
This part of the website is for social media links. You’ll find no links here as I am not active in those spaces.
You will, however, find me exploring trails around Freeport and across Maine! Close your computer and come meet me outside. Here is a link to some of my favorite spots!
https://freeportconservationtrust.org/
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