The Good Neighbor Podcast recently welcomed Tracey and Eric Childress, the husband and wife team behind JRich Photo, a photography business specializing in school sports and family photography in the Tri-Cities region. Their journey into photography began unexpectedly about 25 years ago when Eric approached the original owner of JRich Photo at his daughter's cheerleading photo session and asked for a job. After completing photography training, Eric found his calling, and eventually, he and Tracey purchased the business in 2018.
What sets JRich Photo apart is their commitment to affordability and community. Tracey explained that one common misconception about photography services is the perceived high cost. "We really, really strive on having something affordable for everyone," she shared. "We know where we live, we know the demographic, we know how challenging things can be and we try to think about that all the time." This mindset reflects their deep connection to the community they serve. Additionally, they function as fundraiser photographers for youth sports leagues, donating a portion of their sales back to these organizations, further demonstrating their commitment to giving back.
Marketing for JRich Photo relies primarily on word of mouth - a testament to their quality work and exceptional customer service. Their reputation has allowed them to expand beyond local boundaries, now covering five states for high school band, chorus, and ROTC programs, as well as sports photography. Eric mentioned one of the most rewarding aspects of their longevity in business: "The kids from 20 years ago are now coaches and have kids themselves that I'm taking pictures of." This generational connection showcases the loyalty they've built through consistent quality and service over a quarter-century in business.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge for JRich Photo. After purchasing the business in 2018, they faced a complete shutdown of school systems just two years later. "March 6th, 2020 was our last photo shoot in a school until the 2021-2022 season," Tracey recalled. To adapt, they got creative with "front porch sessions," taking family photos from a distance. They credit the CARES Act with saving their business and home during this difficult period. While they've bounced back since the pandemic, they acknowledge that numbers still haven't returned to their pre-pandemic levels, though they remain optimistic as families continue returning to sports and activities.
Beyond their business, Tracey and Eric are passionate music lovers. Tracey previously worked for the Birthplace of Country Music for 12 years, and they're self-described "old Deadheads" who followed the Grateful Dead for years. They try to combine business with pleasure when traveling for photography jobs, always seeking out local recommendations for food and attractions. At the core of their message is the reminder that supporting JRich Photo means supporting a family business and a dream. As Tracey eloquently put it, "When folks support us, they're not just getting pictures, they're supporting a family and a dream. This allows us to live our lives, do some fun things, give back to our community and be a part of this region."
To learn more about JRich Photo go to:
https://jrichphoto.zenfolio.com/
JRich Photo
(423) 817-9734