Wife. Mother. Photographer.
Married to my forever human and going on 13 years strong. Eli is my steady, constant, and playmate. We are polar opposites--he's a calculated, philosophical, and quiet guy. Meanwhile, I'm a spontaneous, free-spirited, extrovert and our differences keep us laughing.
Our four children, ages 12, 10, 8, and 3, are a hoot and ensure there is never a dull moment in the Lanctot home. I've been homeschooling for 8 years and LOVE it. It's basically my side hobby. I enjoy being with my children and learning alongside them....and lots of days I'm learning FROM them! The days can be long but the years are so short and I cherish this time.
My friends and family describe me as bold, vibrant, warm and peaceful. On summer days you’ll find me in the garden or hiking in the woods, and in the cooler months you’ll find me sipping my Nespresso coffee while packing up the kids for a trip to the library or a playdate with friends. A present and unhurried lifestyle is my happy place!
Born and raised on a farm with my 12 siblings. Yes, you read that right and no it is not a typo! It gets better. My childhood was filled with animals, mud wars, shoveling manure, lawn mowing, lake swimming, camping under the stars, horseback riding, and late-night games of Kick the Can. I often joke that being the middle child of so many humans under one roof is why I'm socially awkward (don't worry, it's a joke--I think.) I love people and have never met a stranger. Wanna be friends? Don’t worry, I’m not desperate. Owner of Jenny May Photo, and fueled by Jesus. In a nutshell, this is me.
It all started with a blurry photo.
I will never forget the moment my son, Quintus, was placed into my arms for the first time. My Doula quickly grabbed her phone and snapped a blurry pic of my heart colliding with heaven. One of the best moments in my life was captured by a cheap camera, blurry focus, and a Doula with great intentions. Here's the kicker. To this day, it remains to be one of my all-time favorite photographs ever.
Why? How? It's simple.
Although the photo is blurry to my eyes, it speaks crystal clear to my heart.
In theory, Quintus taught me my most valuable photography lesson that day. Don't tell him, he'll take all the credit. I learned early into my career that artistic style, excellent lighting, and top-notch gear are helpful to have but it's not what makes excellent photography happen. Instead, excellent photography is a bi-product of authenticity. And authenticity happens best when people are given permission to be who they are and know they'll be celebrated for it rather than posed into someone or something else.
This is my passion. It is the heart-beat behind Jenny May Photo and I hope I will have the privilege of tying your sweet memories to stunning images that you will cherish for a life-time.