Jen Deeter of COLUMBUS on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Jen Deeter and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Jen, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Absolutely; and here’s why.
I don’t just take photos, I create immersive experiences. Whether it’s a fantasy wedding, a cinematic boudoir session, or an epic LARP weekend, I bring a storyteller’s heart and a nerd’s soul to every project. My clients aren’t just clients they become part of a shared vision.

What sets me apart is how much I care. I help build timelines, offer outfit guidance, hype people up, and make even the most camera-shy feel confident. I understand the communities I work with because I’m in them and that connection shows in every frame.

I would 100% hire me because I offer more than beautiful images. I offer comfort, creativity, and a space where people feel celebrated exactly as they are.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Jen Deeter, the owner and creative force behind GamerGurl Photography, a Columbus based photography brand that blends fantasy, storytelling, and real emotion. I specialize in cinematic portraits, nerdy weddings, LARP and cosplay sessions, and boudoir that feels both empowering and magical.

What makes my work special is how immersive and personal it is I don’t just show up with a camera, I help build the experience. Whether that means working in-character at a LARP, crafting a fantasy set, or guiding couples through wedding timelines, I’m there for the moments that matter and the worlds people love.

My background in gaming, cosplay, and nerd culture allows me to connect deeply with my clients and it shows in the photos. Right now, I’m working on expanding my “Legendary Lens & Lore” series and building out more custom experiences for fantasy lovers, creatives, and couples who want something different.

If you’ve ever wanted photos that feel like they were pulled from a movie, a game, or your wildest imagination that’s what I do.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My husband without a doubt. He’s always believed in my talent, even when I was still finding my voice as an artist. Along the way, I’ve also been incredibly lucky to have some amazing friends who’ve lifted me up, reminded me of my worth, and encouraged me to dream bigger. Their support helped me step into the creative, confident business owner I am today.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You don’t have to fit into anyone else’s mold your weird, wild, creative heart is your superpower. Keep dreaming big, keep creating, and trust that one day, the things that make you “different” will become the things people love most about you.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That you have to be traditional to be successful. The photography industry often pushes a cookie-cutter aesthetic, strict rules about posing, editing, or what “sells.” But that mindset ignores the power of creativity, emotion, and individuality.

Another big lie? That clients only care about the photos. In reality, they care about the experience how you make them feel, how you guide them, how you see them. Connection matters just as much as the final gallery.

There’s room for magic, weirdness, and soul in this industry and I’m here to prove

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days. 
Absolutely especially during Halloween and fall! That’s my season to thrive. The air gets crisp, the costumes come out, and suddenly I’m shooting witches in the woods, vampires in castles, and magic in motion. It’s where my creativity explodes.

I also feel that same spark anytime I get to photograph in epic locations or collaborate with amazing people who bring bold concepts to life. Those are the days I can’t sleep the night before the ones where I’m bursting with ideas, inspiration, and gratitude that this is my job.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gamergurlphotos.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/GamerGurl_photos
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gamergurlphotos

Image Credits
GamerGurl Photography