Picture Perfect

Being Neighbourly x Jenna Louise Potter, Jenna Louise Potter Photography

Author/ Being Neighbourly
9 April 2025

For me, a typical shoot means meeting a fun, lively family at one of Hong Kong’s beautiful spots, like Tai Ping Shan in Sheung Wan or the Star Ferry,” says Jenna Louise Potter.

“We embark on a mini adventure together, where I capture both posed portraits and those candid, joyous moments, all within about an hour. The vibrant backdrops make every session special!”, she enthuses over her work in Hong Kong.

Originally from South Africa, Potter has prior work experience as both a fashion buyer and as a nanny to an expat family, the latter position during which she says she discovered her love for photography, while capturing their kids with her lenses. “I’m entirely self-taught and truly believe that with passion, you can learn anything!”

Potter made the leap to Hong Kong in 2010, moving from Cape Town, and, in 2013, took the plunge to turn her photography passion into a full-time business, specializing in family portraits, while raising her own children here; she has four.

“One of my most memorable shoots was a family reunion where the parents were originally from Hong Kong, but their four grown children lived all over the globe,” she shares, adding that photographing them as they reconnected in the heart of Hong Kong was “incredibly heartwarming and meaningful”, after such a long time apart.

According to her, the majority of her work comes from families eager to document their yearly growth, and she also offers studio sessions around Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, which become opportunities for families to create beautifully-crafted portraits for gifts.

Additionally, she says she’s passionate about transforming the school portrait industry in Hong Kong.

“I’m dedicated to making school portraits a more enjoyable and authentic experience for both children and parents,” she exclaims, adding that by creating engaging and fun sessions, she aims to capture the unique personalities of each child, moving beyond the traditional stiff, and, often, unflattering poses.

“My goal is to make school portraits a celebration of individuality, ensuring that every child’s spirit shines through in their photos. This approach not only enhances the experience, but also results in portraits that families will treasure for years to come.”

Potter admits that the journey has had its challenges, but says the joy of creative freedom and building genuine connections with families has made it worthwhile for her; and her business is growing with the addition of two women to her team this year, “also mums and ex-kindergarten teachers”, with whom she aims to grow her school portrait business.

“I feel so lucky to get to do what I love every day. The relationships I’ve built with my clients have turned into friendships, and, honestly, it often feels like I’m just hanging out with friends rather than working.”

“I craved adventure and wanted to experience something completely different from my life in South Africa. Fifteen years later, I couldn’t be prouder to call Hong Kong my home.”

What’s the best work advice you have received?

“The best work advice I’ve received came from a mentor during my early photography days,” says Jenna Louise Potter, Founder of her eponymous photography outfit. “She told me to ‘always trust your instincts and stay true to your vision,’ which really resonated with me. It’s so easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, but focusing on what feels authentic to me, has been a game changer.”

“On top of that, she emphasized the importance of consistency and discipline. Staying committed to my craft and putting in the effort, day in and day out, has been crucial for my growth and business
development.”

“It’s this combination of listening to my heart and maintaining a strong work ethic that helps me share genuine connections with my clients. I’m grateful for that wisdom, as it fuels my passion and keeps me inspired every day,” she adds.

Jenna Louise Potter Photography
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