Last spring, Des Arc High School sophomore Jaylee Gladish decided to try something new by picking up a camera and offering to take senior pictures for free. What began as a simple opportunity to help classmates quickly turned into something much bigger. Through the experience, Gladish discovered a passion for photography and began developing skills that would eventually lead her to start her own photography business.
After taking her first senior portraits, Gladish became increasingly interested in learning how photography could tell stories and capture important moments. She spent time practicing with different settings, angles, lighting, and editing techniques while continuing to photograph students and school events. As her confidence grew, so did the demand for her work.
Today, Gladish regularly photographs school sporting events and contributes photos for the yearbook, helping preserve memories and highlight student activities across campus. Her work has become an important part of documenting student life at Des Arc High School while also allowing her to gain valuable real-world experience in photography, communication, and time management.
Wanting to continue improving her skills, Gladish partnered with Cara Whiting Photography to learn more about professional photography, particularly sports and event photography. Through this mentorship, she has gained hands-on experience working in fast-paced environments and learning the expectations of professional clients and events.
The partnership has opened many new opportunities for Gladish. She is now gaining experience photographing weddings, sporting events, and other large events across the state of Arkansas. By working alongside an experienced photographer, she has learned the importance of preparation, professionalism, editing, and capturing meaningful moments under pressure.
This project demonstrates how a small idea can grow into a meaningful career pathway through the EAST program. What started as free senior pictures for classmates has evolved into a growing business and a valuable learning experience. Gladish has not only developed technical photography skills, but also entrepreneurship, communication, and networking abilities that will benefit her far beyond high school.
Her journey serves as an example of how students can turn personal interests into real opportunities through creativity, initiative, and community partnerships.