Jay Nel-McIntosh Photography

We met Jay this Summer at a Wine and Art Event we collaborated on with Haley Badenhop and Penny Lane Cooperative. We invited people to help shelter animals find forever homes while learning how to water color. We brought along photos of animals still up for adoption in the valley for everyone to watercolor that evening while discussing our mission with the group.

Jay informed us that she was a photographer that evening and would love to join forces for a photoshoot if we needed someone in the future. When August rolled around we had a small highlight piece we needed her for on a foster pup. Sadie Mae and her foster met us at Snow King the local ski mountain to take some incredible photos of Sadie Mae in her natural element. We then reached out recently and had her shoot the new faces at the Teton County Animal Shelter as well.

Jay is a natural behind the lens and is not afraid of getting on the ground to get the shot that she needs. Her love for photography and any subject she is shooting is very apparent. Just moments with a subject she gets the shot she wants so perfectly.

We want to thank Jay for her precious time and talent capturing these incredible souls and helping them find their forever homes.

Lens And Leash: When did you first start taking up photography and why?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: My gramma bought me my first camera when I was 13 for a trip to South Africa to photograph the wildlife, and ever since then I have had a passion for it. I studied photojournalism in university, concluding it was better to graduate with a degree that I was passionate about than follow a conventional route. Immediately upon graduation in 2011 I began working for a leading Australian Newspaper as a photographer.

Lens And Leash: When did you start your photography business and what was your goal when you started the company?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: My business really began in 2011 when I worked both full time as a news photographer with freelance projects on the side. My goal was to make a living doing something I loved that also brought happiness to others.

Lens And Leash: What services do you provide?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Lifestyle advertising, family and wedding and travel photography.

Lens And Leash: What makes you stand out compared to other photographers?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: I try to make photoshoots fun and casual. When my clients are relaxed and having a good time, the photos reflect that natural feeling.

Lens And Leash: What is your style and what do you like to photograph most?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Candid – People and Food. People because getting that candid shot of happiness and love is such a special memory to have. Food – because I love to eat and see a chef’s passion for their job reflected in the dishes they create and plate.

Lens And Leash: Do you have a favorite project you have shot and why?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: I did a thesis project on Refugees and Asylum seekers in Australia. To connect deeply with the people I photographed and hear their stories was a very special project for me. I am still in contact with many of them today.

Lens And Leash: What has been your favorite location to work at so far?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Anything outside! I love to travel and for me taking photos while traveling is an essential part of every trip. In saying that, you can’t beat coming home to our beautiful town of Jackson and the Tetons as a backdrop. They make any photo stunning!

Lens And Leash: What changes have you seen in the industry since you started?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Better technology means that amateur photographers are able to take incredible photos on something as simple as an Iphone.

Lens And Leash: What gets you most excited about your business and the future?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: I love to see where and how my business grows and the people that I meet as a result. Combing my photography work with other passions such as travel to make a living doing things I love is really the most rewarding feeling.

Lens And Leash: What inspires you?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Afternoon light, details in nature, people’s excitement, trying new things and pushing boundaries.

Lens And Leash: What is your favorite camera?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: The one I have in my hand – which is usually a Canon 5D Mark III.

Lens And Leash: What is the one thing you have to have on all of your shoots?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: I try to keep things simple – some day I am lugging around a bunch of equipment but in reality all I really need is a camera with a midrange lens and so much can be accomplished.

Lens And Leash: Do you have any tips for aspiring photographers?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: When you see a photo you like, take the time to understand what it is about that photo that draws you to it. Noticing details around you it what makes a good photo a great photo.

Lens And Leash: Do you have any pets? Have you ever adopted?

Jay Nel-McIntosh: Yes and yes! My boyfriend and I currently have a big Maine Coon cat, Sabbath. I have always grown up with dogs though and many of them have been adopted. I can’t wait to have another dog in my life, but for the moment, I have plenty of friends with amazing dogs I love to play with.