I'm Jen Waicukauski
creative explorer specializing in the camera arts
Moving portrait by: Kristi Odom
So how do you say that last name!?
watch•a•cow•ski
yep - my last name is a sentence. Waicukauski = Watch•a•cow•ski
Some Random Facts
√ I was Assistant to photographer Rondal Partridge
Northern California has a rich history embedded in the beginnings of the photographic arts and the building of a community of photographers. I am proud to have been part of it's storied legacy as an assistant to Ron Partridge (Ron was assistant to Ansel Adams, assistant to Dorothea Lange, and the son of Imogen Cunningham)
√ I studied with Maggie Taylor
Maggie is a Photoshop compositing superstar, and an original user of the Adobe program from the start. She has a magic mind and unbridled creativity. It has been a highlight of my continued education to have the opportunity to learn with and from her. See Maggie's brilliant work on her website here.
√ I built my first camera when I was eight
My very first camera was one that I made myself: a pinhole camera for darkroom work during summer art camp at Indiana University - a very proud moment at the age of eight. Curiously, it was with a pinhole camera that I completed my degree in fine art photography. I love that as much as things change, there are some things that remain the same.
√ I'm wilderness first aid certified
It's always good to be prepared, especially when visiting remote areas around the world. Hopefully I never have to use these skills, but I'm so glad I have them. Just in case.
√ I've used Photoshop for over 30 years
I guess you could say that I know a thing or two about post-processing and using Photoshop to do it.
√ I really like camera gear and tools for photography
I know gear can be intimidating for a lot of people, and I believe that having help finding the right gear for you is important for each individual creative experience. I love gear. I've used and had unusual access to A LOT of gear. I love helping people make informed choices about gear so they aren't wasting time, money and resources on crap that doesn't actually make their lives and creative pursuits better.
√ I am a certified California Naturalist!
I am so proud to have completed my certification as a California Naturalist through UCANR in Point Reyes!
I love using the tools and techniques of photography to enhance my understanding of the natural world and connect more people to it. Every time I pick up my camera, I learn something new about the world around me. I can't wait to share that exploration with you!
Professional Pursuits
OWNER
LOOKING GLASS PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS
Located in the heart of Berkeley, our photo center spans an impressive 8,000 square feet of immersive space. Step inside and discover a full retail showroom, an art gallery, a darkroom facility for traditional photography enthusiasts, and an educational classroom where you can sharpen your photography skills. Visit Looking Glass!
CO-FOUNDER
EPIC PHOTO ESCAPES
Produces & curates ethical wildlife experiences for photography enthusiasts that desire sublime moments in nature, and to learn how to create stunning photos and videos of those moments that take your breath away. Visit Epic Photo Escapes!
EDUCATION
ACADEMY OF ART
Jen is a trained fine art photographer, completing her studies at the world-renowned Academy of Art, where she has also served as an instructor & speaker.