Hey there!
I'm Tonya Zawacki, owner and photographer of JT Photography. Originally from North Carolina, I relocated to Cape Coral, FL in 2017 for year-round sunshine. I've been shooting professionally for over 16 years - from the FL coast to the NC mountains. I'm available for local sessions and weddings as well as traveling anywhere in the US.
In my free time I enjoy kayaking the beautiful gulf waters, working-out, spending time with my husband, my family, and snuggling with our spoiled dachshund. A few fun facts about me - I'm newly married to a super talented landscape and wildlife photographer, I love true crime stories and a perfect cup of coffee! Ask me where to find the best crab cakes - I'll be happy to share a local favorite :)
Whether you and your family are traveling to SWFL for vacation, you're getting married on the beach, or you live here full time - I'd love to meet you and document your life. I look forward to connecting with you!
FAQ
Where do you shoot?
Most of my sessions are shot on Sanibel, Captiva, Downtown Fort Myers, Fort Myers Beach & Cape Coral. I have many favorite locations to choose from, we will chat and I'll help you decide which is best for your session. Whether it's a beach backdrop you're looking for, a park or pasture, I probably know a great one. I love new locations and I'm happy to travel!
What is included?
All my sessions and weddings include a consultation, phone or in person. I love getting to know my clients and finding out exactly what they are looking for. I also help with location choices, outfits, etc. The full gallery is provided via email within two weeks of your session. Basic editing is included as needed - basic blemish removal, white balance correction, cropping. Teeth whitening, skin smoothing and extended editing is additional upon request. Your private online gallery is where you will download your high resolution images. Once your session is complete and your gallery has been delivered, I'm always available for questions, additional editing, prints, or anything else you need.
What kind of gear do you use?
I'm a Nikon girl, have been from day one. I have one main body and always have a back-up with me, with multiple lenses. I prefer natural light, so you won't see me with lots of light equipment for your session, but I do use flash accessories for indoor weddings & events when needed.
How long have you been shooting?
I don't remember a time when photography in some shape or form wasn't part of my life. My first camera was a pink Barbie 110 film camera when I was around 8 yrs old. I remember my mom taking me to Eckerd to pick up the photos when I was in elementary school. My first job in high school was working in the camera dept. in our local retail store, I read camera manuals for fun! I started learning the craft professionally in 2002, shooting landscape, and then photo editing & restoration. In 2005, I opened JT Photography. I've shot around 300 weddings and countless family, maternity, and newborn sessions over the last 17 years.
Do I have to order prints through you?
You do not. Your online gallery will have an option to order prints, and this is great for out of town family and friends. I use a professional photo lab, and they will be delivered 7-10 days after you order. You can also simply download the images from your online gallery (hi-res), upload to your USB or computer, and have prints made anywhere you'd like. All print labs are not created equal - I'll be happy to share some of the best.
Why should you hire me?
I believe there isn't one photographer for everyone - it's important we're the right fit. I simply love my job and my clients, and I truly get excited after each session to see what was captured. I think for any profession, keeping that excitement is important. As a mom, I know it can be stressful worrying about booking a photo session, especially with children, but it doesn't have to be. A session with me is relaxed, I want you to just be yourselves, we'll get some great photos and have lots of fun too!