The Artist
Meet Jess
Photographer, Travel Fanatic, Aries, Certified Professional Photographer
Jessica "Jess" Wakefield is not just a photographer—she’s a storyteller, adventurer, and relentless creative. She has lived in 13 different states (some more than once!), spent time overseas, and traveled to 49 states (Nebraska, she’s coming for you!). Her wanderlust has taken her across five continents + Central America, shaping her unique perspective behind the lens.
Raised in Vermont, Jess' childhood was filled with tree-climbing, goat-milking, and swamp-exploring, setting the foundation for her adventurous spirit. After leaving Vermont in 1995, she pursued a Criminal Justice degree with a minor in Psychology at Auburn University before heading overseas to teach English.
Her passion for storytelling through photography led her to the Hallmark Institute of Photography, where she graduated in 2007. Since then, she has worked across multiple photography fields, launching Jessica Marie Photography in 2007, focusing on travel and commercial work. In 2014, she co-founded Dark Light Portrait Studios, specializing in portraits, weddings, sports, and events. Her dedication to the craft earned her a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) certification in 2017.
Now based in Williamsburg, Virginia, Jess continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, always seeking new ways to capture the world with passion, precision, and purpose. She is currently working on her Masters of Photography degree through Professional Photographers of America.
The Awards
Recently named a Top Ten Photographer of the Year, as well as Commercial & Social Function Photographer of the Year for Tampa Bay, FL
Recently named a Top Ten Photographer of the Year as well as a member of the Court of Honor, with images in the prestigious Commonwealth Collection for Virginia Professional Photographers Association.
The Story
After graduating from Hallmark Institute of Photography in 2007, where she received classical training in all types of photography, Jessica Wakefield spent years working on her craft, building her knowledge base and honing her skills. In 2014, she moved to Monroe, Louisiana to start Dark Light Portrait Studios with fellow photographer Tony Romo. They remained in Monroe until 2017, then re-located to Tampa, Florida, where they remained in business until the middle of 2023. At that time, Tony decided it was time to explore other avenues, stepped away from the business and moved back to Oklahoma, where he is originally from. Jess took over as the solo owner of Dark Light. As of July, 2024, Jess has moved further north, to live in the beautiful city of Williamsburg, Virginia, where she hopes to meet tons of new people, enjoy having seasons and hopefully get to wear some cold weather clothes!
At Dark Light Portrait Studios, she creates art, custom designed to decorate the walls of your home. She works hard to make sure that you have an enjoyable time and that your portraits are exactly what you need for your home.
Award winning, published, and unforgettable portrait and wedding photographer based in Williamsburg, VA. Certified Professional Photographer and member of Professional Photographers of America (PPA), Tampa Area Professional Photographer Association (TAPPA) and Virginia Professional Photographers Association (VPPA). Jess works hard to give you an amazing experience that you will never forget.
