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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 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.​​​​

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√  I really like camera gear and tools for photography

 

I love gear. I've used and had unusual access to A LOT of gear. And I know gear can be intimidating for a lot of people, so at Looking Glass, helping people make informed choices about gear and growing their confidence in their creative pursuits feels like a valuable use of my time and a way of enhancing my connection to our photographic community.

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√  I've used Photoshop for over 30 years

 

Yep. I'm that old.

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​√  I studied with Maggie Taylor

 

Maggie is a Photoshop compositing superstar, and an original user of the Adobe program from the start. 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

You're never to old to learn new things.

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√  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!

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√  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.

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 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)

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 I have a BFA in photography

 

No. You do not need a college degree to be a photographer, I know.... but it looks good on my CV, made my dad happy and totally legitimizes my gear habits.

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Professional Pursuits

OWNER

LOOKING GLASS PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS

Located in the heart of Berkeley, our photo center cultivates a unique gear outfitting experience, and fosters education, inclusion and community. Step inside and discover a kind-hearted team of experts with decades of photo and camera knowledge that spans traditional film photography, alternative processes, modern digital and video. Let us help distill the vast world of photography products and services and tailor options specific to you and your needs. 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. Email  jen@lookingglassphoto.com if you are interested in upcoming outings and workshops!

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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.

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