take a breath, relax.

your only job here is to be yourself.

A young child in a plaid flannel shirt smiles brightly in an autumn backyard setting.
A couple embraces in a field at sunset wearing casual clothing and a baseball cap.
Woman in white shirt dancing and moving in a rustic bar setting with warm lighting.
Intimate couple's portrait session at dusk with soft lighting.
Child sitting on rustic wooden fence in a burgundy patterned dress.
Small child in floral print shirt playing with car steering wheel.

Let’s slow down for a second. This isn’t just about taking photos. Whether it’s family pictures or your wedding day, our time together is about you: who you are, what matters to you, and how you want to remember this time. Years from now, when you look back at these images, I want you to feel grateful that you let yourself relax and actually enjoy the experience without stressing over things you'll most likely forget about years later, sometimes even weeks later.

Feeling awkward in front of the camera? Totally normal. Think of it more like hanging out with a friend who just happens to be holding a camera. I’m here to guide you, hype you up, and help you feel comfortable. We’ll mix natural and candid prompts, so your real personality and connections shine through any initial stiffness. Most importantly, my job is to serve you and your specific needs. Ask questions, tell me what you’re nervous about, share your ideas. I’m all ears.


We’re in this together, and I’ve got you every step of the way.

1. connect & share
2. schedule & prep
3. plan & create
4. edit & deliver

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what to expect

1. connect & share
2. schedule & prep
3. plan & create
4. edit & deliver

If you’ve decided to choose me as your photographer, first of all, YAY! Head to the contact tab if you're not sure where to start and fill out the form with your information, ideas, or even just a feeling. This is where it begins. Ask all the questions, share what you’re dreaming, and tell me what we’re celebrating, no matter how small. No pressure, no expectations — just a conversation to see if we’re the right fit. I can’t wait to meet you.

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what to expect

1. connect & share
2. schedule & prep
3. plan & create
4. edit & deliver

Once we move forward, we’ll choose a date and take care of the details together. We’ll decide which session fits you best — or customize something if needed, and talk through your vision in more depth. Whether you prefer texts, phone calls, or emails, that's exactly what we'll do. Planning is always thoughtful, clear, and tailored to you, so everything feels easy and stress-free.

You can explore the investment section below and request the session that speaks to you. After your booking request is accepted on my end, you’ll receive a service & licensing agreement, a detailed questionnaire, and an invoice for the retainer. Only when everything is completed, your date is officially secured.

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what to expect

1. connect & share
2. schedule & prep
3. plan & create
4. edit & deliver

With your booking accepted, you’ll have until the day of your session to take care of the remaining balance. With the logistics handled, we get to focus on the fun stuff — curated playlists, wardrobe ideas, props, and all the little details that make your session feel like you. We’ll plan just enough to feel prepared, while leaving room for real moments to unfold naturally. When you arrive, we’ll reconnect, talk through the goal one more time, and then the magic begins. I’ll guide you when needed, but all you have to do is be yourself, have fun, and let go — I’ve got the rest!

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what to expect

1. connect & share
2. schedule & prep
3. plan & create
4. edit & deliver

Within the timeframe outlined for your session type, you’ll receive your fully edited images through a digital gallery sent straight to your email. From there, you’ll be able to download your photos and explore print and product options to bring them to life beyond the screen. Each image is edited with care and intention, so please avoid screenshots — they significantly reduce quality and will not remove the watermark. When you shareyour photos on social media (which I LOVE), don’t forget to tag @expressionsbyjessen so I can celebrate with you!



the investment

Dark outdoor scene with distant lights creating a moody atmosphere.

the first thing we reach for when we realize that time doesn't wait.

something inside of us knows that this moment isn't staying.

a way to pause, and hold what time refuses to.

the days are long, but the years are short.

book the session.

Each session is thoughtfully crafted to reflect your story, your personality,
and your celebration.

The packages and pricing here reflect
the time, care, and artistry that
go into every image, so you can feel
confident knowing your investment is
preserved in meaningful, lasting memories.

PORTRAITs

family・couples・Maternity・newborn + more!

Every portrait session is designed to capture timeless, expressive, and intentional images. I carefully curate and edit only the best moments to create a gallery you’ll treasure for years. If what you're looking for doesn't align with any of the packages, please fill out the contact form so we can customize a session just for you.


ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  • Unlimited pre-session planning & communication
  • Online gallery for viewing, downloading, sharing, and printing delivered within 2 weeks.
  • Flexible locations based on your interests/ideas in the Bismarck/Mandan area
  • Non-refundable 50% retainer required to reserve your date upon booking.
  • No limit on image downloads from your gallery.

express

$230, 20-30 mins, 1 location


The smallest package available, allows for plenty of time to shine. We’ll create beautiful, intentional images you’ll treasure, whether it’s yearly family photos, childhood milestones, seasonal photos, or quick business headshots. Minimum of 20 edited images.


optional add-ons:

studio rental, $50

2nd outfit per person, $10  

book now

simple

$400, 45-60 mins, 1 location


A relaxed session designed to capture natural, authentic moments for families, maternity, couples, branding, or senior portraits. This session gives you plenty of time for creativity while keeping things simple and stress-free. Minimum of 40 edited images.


optional add-ons:

studio rental, $50

2nd outfit per person, $10  

book now

story

$550, 75-90 mins, 2 locations


An immersive session designed to capture your whole story in full. With plenty of time to slow down, this package is perfect for meaningful milestones for families, maternity, couples, seniors, and branding.

Minimum of 60 edited images.


optional add-ons:

studio rental, included

3rd outfit per person, $10 

book now
Couple sharing playful piggyback moment against desert mountain backdrop at sunset.
Hands reaching under a decorated Christmas tree with twinkling lights.
Black and white portrait showing a tender moment between parent and child.
Close-up of studded black shoes and tattooed legs on wooden flooring.
Family embracing on a sunny lawn with trees in the background.
Black and white photo of people sitting by a serene lake at sunset.

 

WEDDINGs

 

coverage for celebrations of all sizes!

I’ve always been a hopeless romantic, which is why I love documenting love, and especially the sacrament of marriage. It’s the joy, the family connections, and the moments you don’t want to forget that matter most to me. I offer half-day and full-day coverage, with custom packages available upon inquiry. Coverage is available by inquiry to ensure we’re the right fit and that your day is served with care and intention.


ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE:

  • Unlimited planning & communication
  • Customized timeline assistance
  • Complimentary engagement session
  • Waived travel fee within the Bismarck/Mandan area
  • Non-refundable retainer of 15-20% required to reserve your date upon booking.
  • Full online gallery of professionally edited images available within 5-10 weeks
  • Sneak Peek gallery within 72 hours
  • Customized USB flash drive with a fully edited gallery
  • Color/B&W Polaroids to take home same-day

 

half day

$1000 ~4 hours


Perfect for small, heartfelt celebrations. This package focuses on the moments that matter most, ideal for courthouse weddings, backyard ceremonies, vow renewals, and intimate gatherings. A minimum of 150 thoughtfully selected, edited images delivered within 4 weeks.


included:

one-hour engagement session

10 polaroids 

*20% retainer* 


inquire now

full day

$3000 ~10 hours


The full storytelling experience. From early preparations to the final dance, this package captures the full scope of your big day—every detail, emotion, and moment you shouldn’t have to miss. A minimum of 350 thoughtfully selected, edited images delivered within 10 weeks.


included:

two-hour engagement session

second photographer

statewide travel (ND)

20 polaroids

*15% retainer*

inquire now
Couple sharing food and laughing together at restaurant table.
Diamond ring photographed with blue and white marbled shoes and pink roses.
Blurred party scene with colorful disco lights and dancing silhouettes.
Person in navy blue shirt stands in contemplative prayer pose by window.
Romantic dip kiss between newlyweds in garden setting.
Bride in sleek white dress holds bouquet while standing in church with Christmas lights in background.

frequently asked questions

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

I get it — life happens! To cancel or reschedule, please contact me directly so we can sort it out together. Your retainer secures your date and is non-refundable, but it can be applied to a new date if you reschedule at least 24 hours before your session.


When will I receive my gallery?

Portrait galleries are usually delivered within 1–2 weeks unless specified otherwise. For weddings & events, you’ll receive a sneak peek within 72 hours, with the full gallery delivered within 5-10 weeks. Timeframes can vary slightly depending on image volume and editing, but I’ll keep you updated every step of the way so you can enjoy your memories while the experience is still fresh.

What do I wear / how do I prepare?

Think coordinated, not matching: one main color, a few accent tones, subtle patterns, and textures. Keep the season and setting in mind, and avoid colors that blend with the background or wash you out. Busy logos and neon colors can be distracting. Most importantly, wear what makes you feel confident — you don’t have to have it all figured out right away, and I’m always happy to chat about outfit ideas after booking.


do you travel?

Yes! Distance shouldn’t stop us from creating something magical. I travel for portraits, weddings, and events (locally or out of state) and I’ll work with you to make it seamless. Travel is $0.50 per mile outside of the Bismarck/Mandan area within the surrounding states (ND, SD, MN, MT) plus any necessary lodging, flights, or meal costs depending on distance and logistics. I’m always happy to discuss the details and create a plan that works for your location and your session vision.

Do you deliver unedited images?

No. My work is an expression of a carefully curated style, developed to tell your story in the most authentic and meaningful way possible. Editing is an essential part of my creative process, allowing me to bring out emotion, tone, and atmosphere. Every image you receive is thoughtfully refined to reflect the vision and quality I proudly stand behind.


Do you offer a military discount?

Yes. I’m honored to offer 10% off photography services for active duty military, veterans, and their spouses with a valid military ID. As a military wife, this is a small way for me to give back. The discount is applied to the final balance and does not affect the required retainer.