We first hired Jen Waddell to shoot photographs of students participating in 826 Boston Young Authors' Book Projects, and her captivating portraits have appeared alongside student writing in nine of our most recent publications. Jen is not only a talented artist, she is also highly personable and flexible. She connects with all of our students, puts them at ease, and makes them feel comfortable in front of a camera. She makes thoughtful suggestions while also considering multiple angles and perspectives on a project. We have since hired Jen for additional shoots, including a recent visit from the mayor, and she has become an integral member of our contracted team of professionals.
Jessica Drench, Executive Director
826 Boston
We hired Jennifer to take photographs for a website offering resources for parents and educators of young children. Her task was to capture candid images of children aged 0-5 in school and home settings, which illustrated the curriculum being offered as well as a warm and engaged connection between children and between children and adults.
If you've ever tried to take a picture of a three year old, let alone an entire classroom of them, you will know this is a tall order. Jennifer delivered on every count. She has an uncanny ability to connect with her subjects and understood intuitively what was needed to accomplish this task in every setting and with every group. We came away with more photographs than we could use and the difficult task of choosing which were the best of the bunch.
Laura Nooney, Senior Producer for the Resources for Early Learning project
WGBH
I work for a research institute at a university in the Boston area. Jennifer took our individual staff photos and research team photos. Her professional and warm manner put at ease people who are generally more comfortable in front of a computer than a camera. Research showed me that very few staff photos capture something of the personality of the subjects. Jennifer's work is truly special. She was a pleasure to work with. We look forward to continued collaboration in the coming years.
Deborah Grant
Brandeis University
Jennifer Waddell is a fine photographer. It's easy to talk to her and easy to sit for her. The results are extraordinary. My book cover will look that much better with Jennifer's photo on it.
Pablo Medina, Writer
Mr. Medina is the author of thirteen books of fiction, nonfiction, translation, and poetry, including the newest translation of Federico Garcia Lorca’s A Poet in New York.
Jennifer Waddell's portraits and family photographs capture individuals beautifully, expressing not only appearance but personality. Her camera loves people. Each image is a celebration of human nature. Her work actually makes me think a social life might be worth having! And this is to say nothing of her dog photos (but I already liked dogs).
Chuck Verrill, Literary Agent
Darhansoff & Verrill