Hello! I'm Jennifer, the owner, photographer, and face behind Bang Images in Birmingham, AL.
I value a sense of humor, creativity, loyalty, and follow-through; and being able to laugh at yourself is absolutely key. I have a BFA in Photography and an Art Education degree from University of Montevallo in Alabama, and as much as I appreciate my achievements in college, I think real life experiences have been equally valuable. I avoid overly posed, stiff photography and lean more toward the non-traditional side. I believe in taking creative chances. I make art because it's hard to imagine existing without it, and I love sharing it with others. I often photograph portraits of individuals and couples, including Micro Weddings, and I adore photographing families too! I hope you'll take some time to look around the website and reach out if you'd like to work together.
Bang Images is an inclusive company rooted in loving people; all cultures and the LGBTQ community are VERY WELCOME! Bang Images supports the Black Lives Matter movement. This is a NO HATE zone.
what to expect
Yes, please.
• chocolate on a daily basis
• the beach (hopefully) once a year
• yoga
• radiating love
•not taking myself too seriously
• taking creative chances
• documenting real interactions between people
No, thank you.
• misogyny
• using social media as a way to gauge personal worth
• horror flicks
• saying "cheese" when photographed
• anxiety
• eggplant
• winter
What's in My Bag
I use Nikon and Sigma equipment.
• Nikon Z 6ii
• Nikon D 780
• Nikon D 750
• 14-24mm 2.8
• 35mm 1.4
• 40mm 2.0
• 50mm 1.8
• 24-70mm 2.8
• 105mm 2.8
• 70-200mm 2.8
• 85mm 1.4
• 55-300mm 4.5
Each photographer has their own process. It may be completely subconscious, or it may be a set mental checklist. It’s inevitably part of every session photographed and every event documented. Below is a brief summary of what to expect while we're photographing together. And don't miss this super informative blog post about what to expect before, during, and after your photoshoot.
1. Observe... (Ready)
One thing is consistently the same no matter who or what I’m photographing; I observe first. Everyone and every situation are unique. It’s hard to discern someone’s personality over the phone, and even harder through email, so when we meet in person, observation is important. You may be a very quiet person who needs a lot of coaxing to open up in front of the camera, or you might love being the center of attention and can’t wait to hear that shutter click. Also, you may be reserved in a one-on-one situation, but really blossom when you’re surrounded by your family and friends. Observation is always the first important step for me as a photographer, and determines how I will conduct the shoot day-of.
2. React... (Set)
I taught school for fifteen years and I have two children of my own, both teens, so I have used this phrase over and over: “I react to you.” It’s a dance of sorts, back and forth while working together. If you’re really comfortable, I’m probably not going to give you as much instruction, and instead will follow your lead. If you’re feeling self-conscious or unsettled, you’ll receive more direction from me. The last thing I want is for you to wish you were anywhere else than with me being photographed. It should be fun and worthwhile. My goal is for you to be comfortable, hopefully have a really good time, and walk away feeling confident! When you are confident, it shows in the photos.
3. Photograph! (Go)
Once I have an idea of how you’re feeling about being photographed, I’ll take a couple of photos to test the light conditions. We’ll start slowly and work our way into producing many photographs. I’ll follow your cues to know whether or not you need more or less direction.
Couples and families, my best advice to you is to interact with one another and keep a physical connection. This may be a small gesture like your hand on someone’s back or it could be a bigger display of affection-a full embrace. You want your photos to communicate the love and connection you feel between you and the person or people you’re being photographed with. Families, I encourage you to play with your children. Couples, stay close to one another and show the camera how in love you are; you might do this in laughter or by gazing into each other’s eyes. How you communicate your love for one another is up to you. Express yourself!
Individuals, you get the spotlight! Think of our time together as hanging out with a friend- a friend with a camera. I'll help you if you feel uncomfortable. I promise.
Hello!
Keep scrolling, please.
Accolades
2022
Summer 2022
Education:
Community involvement:
*University of Montevallo, BFA Photography
*University of Montevallo, BS
Art Education
*Heart Gallery of Alabama, 2010-present
*Girls Rock Birmingham, 2018-2019
*Magic City Acceptance Center, 2018
2023
2024
"Getting family pictures done is always such a production but an investment that is so important to our family. Since moving to Birmingham we hadn't found one here locally, until we found Jennifer. She was everything you would hope for. She responded to my query quickly, was flexible with scheduling, even helped me with styling (who does that?!), and when we had to reschedule due to weather was very accommodating. THEN came the big day and she was AWESOME! We have three very active children and not only was she super laid back and worked so well with the kids, the pictures are unbelievably beautiful! We had pouty kids, distracted kids, tired and hungry kids but she more than managed to get beautiful pictures for us. She even got a beautiful headshot that I am super happy to use for work. Do not hesitate to hire Jennifer with Bang Images. Exceptional!"
Sarah-
Mom, Family Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is amazing! Very patient, very creative and amazing with light. We never felt rushed and we enjoyed the experience. We will definitely shoot with Jennifer again!"
Antonia-
Family Portrait Subject
"Jennifer has provided us with raw, unique, intimate family photos for the past few years. So, when we eloped, it was imperative to us that she be there. Because Jennifer captures small details in a way that solidifies them in history. Our oldest daughter’s way of pulling the entire family in for a hug, our youngest daughter’s sweet habit of offering kisses, both of their ever-changing facial expressions are now captured forever. Fleeting things that we get so caught up in the day to day, we may not think to pause and capture, Jennifer’s intuitive eye and mind picks up on. She’s also extremely calm and approachable, sure to make even the most nervous subject at ease. There are tons of photographers who can stage your family and get you a “nice” family photo. Jennifer does so much more."
Christina-
Family Portrait Subject
"I had the privilege of working with Jennifer on TWO occasions. My family and I had a shoot for our daughter's 2nd birthday and I treated myself to a 40th birthday shoot. Both experiences were absolutely amazing. We laughed and had fun like we've known each other for years. Jennifer is professional and has such an artistic eye. I highly recommend her for ANY photography needs. Thank you again for such an awesome experience!"
Maria-
Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is not only professional and talented, she’s warm, loving, and instantly made us feel like we were friends. She photographs from the heart and our photos are proof of her love for her art. She will be our family photographer for years to come."
Emily-
Maternity Portrait Subject
"Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner took all of the stress and anxiety out of having professional headshots taken. She put me at ease and made the headshot experience a joy. She also followed CDC guidelines and protocols, which is really important to me."
Michael-
Headshot Subject
"I just saw all the photos we took together and I totally am in love. Bang Images really is a fitting name. I was able to feel chic yet raw and truly beautiful in my own pictures for once. Such a fun time shooting, super comfortable and open. Can’t wait to do it again sometime!"
Aisha-
Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is a kind, thoughtful artist. She makes her subjects feel comfortable as themselves, and the photographs are evidence of that. Our family had a fun, playful outdoor shoot on a chilly morning. The photos are excellent, the best we’ve had as a family. I’m glad we went with Bang."
Charlie-
Family Portrait Subject
"An absolute pleasure to work with, super talented, and just a wonderful person to be around. Can't wait to work together again!"
Aimee-
Portrait Subject
"Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner is a talented photographer with a heart of gold! This summer she volunteered her time and skills to photograph our LGBTQ youth prom at Magic City Acceptance Center. She provided a safe space for youth to express themselves as they are and feel their best - all the while completely affirming their identities and expressions. The images were gorgeous and she delivered them quickly, much to the delight of many teenagers anxious to get their photos back! We appreciate her trained eye and kind heart!"
Lauren-
Magic City Acceptance Center's Outreach Coordinator
"When my fiance and I first met with Jennifer for our initial consultation we were so impressed about how she genuinely took time to get to know us, our families, and the details of our wedding. She made us feel comfortable and we knew after that meeting we wanted to make her our wedding/engagement photographer. Since then she's been very organized and on-top of communication, which goes well with mine and my finace's personalities. We just recently took our engagement photos and Jennifer did a great job of giving some guidance but also capturing candid, authentic photos. Since seeing our photos, we could not be happier! She really captured the essence of our relationship. We look forward to continue working with her to capture our wedding!"
Callie-
Portrait Subject
"To begin with I simply ADORE Jennifer's pictures. She has such a unique eye and special perspective. I originally approached Jennifer for this very reason - I was tired of getting the same old pictures of my posed family, smiling, looking at the camera. Bang Images delivered all that and more. Jennifer is so easy-going and immediately puts you at ease. If you're someone who wants beautiful pictures, but doesn't always feel comfortable in front of a camera, Bang is for you. Jennifer is definitely open to ideas you may have for photo shoots and is willing to try new things. If you hire Jennifer, you're not only getting a quality photographer, you're getting a dedicated artist. You won't be disappointed in her work and will cherish the pictures she takes for years to come!"
Angela-
Family Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is a TRUE artist! Her vision and creativity alone are amazing, but add in her camera skills and you've got the perfect recipe for incredible images! I have worked with her a couple of times now and am forever blown away by her kindness and talent. I am not a model by any means, but she put me at ease in front of the camera and made me feel so good about myself when I saw how she captured me. I recommend Jennifer a million times over!"
Morgan-
Portrait Subject
"I loved my experience with Jennifer! She’s so incredibly professional and talented. She has a wonderful personality that’s so calming but also really light hearted and fun. I’m always blown away by her photos!"
Alex-
Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is the most lovely person and incredible photographer. We have worked with her for three years, and she has been able to capture the spirit and uniqueness of my family. This was the first year as a family of four, and I appreciated so much that she paid just as much attention to my five year old as she did with the newborn. It made him feel special in a time where the focus has been on little brother. It’s always obvious how good he feels about himself after he sees the pictures. She is patient with my super energetic child and with my family’s goofiness. I’m so in love with every picture from every session. I cannot recommends her highly enough."
Rhiannon-
Family Portrait Subject
"Jennifer Alsabrook-Turner of Bang Images is a masterful photographer who sees in us what we don't see in ourselves. The project {Flow} is a celebration of all women and all their divine feminine expression, multi-faceted beauty, and humanness (read: non-perfectionism). We've been conditioned to believe beauty and sexuality are one in the same. They are not, beauty lies in flaws and most importantly in grace and vulnerability."
Melissa-
Portrait Subject
"I really enjoyed working with Jennifer for my creative head shots! As a poet, I want my images to reflect my art, and I think my finished head shots do just that! They are colorful, slick, and hold an intensity that I just love. Jennifer made me feel comfortable and photogenic--it was painless and fun! Definitely contact her for any of your photographic needs!"
Ashley-
Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is such an amazing photographer and great to work with. She made us feel comfortable during the shoot and gave just enough direction to help us capture some beautiful, genuine moments without feeling too staged. She’s also very careful and conscious of everyone’s health during this pandemic which we really appreciated."
Danny-
Couple's Portrait
Subject
"Jennifer of Bang Images is an incredibly professional and talented photographer. We met outdoors at a public park on a gorgeous morning, and the session was so enjoyable. She captured several really sweet and beautiful images of our daughter. Being a parent herself, Jennifer knows how to engage with children to get really sincere photos from them, without a lot of phony posing or props. We know our child best, so Jennifer encouraged us to interact with our daughter as we normally would, and that she and her camera would do the rest. I highly recommend hiring Bang Images for family photos."
Russ-
Family Portrait Subject
"Jennifer is really an amazing artist. She captures moments in such a special way that is truly unique and rare. My fiancé and I aren't extremely comfortable with cameras but she made us feel comfortable and we had fun! We had a wedding planned shortly after the pandemic began and she made things work for us given a tough situation. She's great and highly recommended for any professional photos!"
Kim-
Couple's Portrait Subject
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