Jonathan Betz Photography Blog bio picture

Portrait Artist | Jonathan Betz, M.Photog., CPP

Jonathan found his love of photography and light while working in Yellowstone National Park in the summer of 1999. During his time there, he mentored under a professional photographer that taught him how to see and capture light - the very foundation of photography. Upon returning home to St. Louis after that summer, he began pursuing a career in professional photography. In 2002, Jonathan accepted a position with a St. Louis Studio as a portrait & wedding photographer and studied under five different Master Photographers. In 2006, he and his wife Lindsay moved to Colorado and opened Jonathan Betz Photography in Colorado Springs.

Jonathan earned his Masters of Photography Degree (M.Photog.) in 2019 and Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) in 2015, conferred by The Professional Photographers of America. His work has been recognized with honors at the national and international level, most recently receiving the Platinum Medal and earning highest honors with a Grand Imaging Award. Jonathan served five terms as the President of the Professional Photographers Guild of Colorado Springs. He has served on the Board of Directors for state and regional professional photography organizations. He's committed to lifelong learning and continually seeks to elevate his craft through professional training, education, and teaching opportunities to help younger photographers refine their skills and businesses.

Studio Manager | Lindsay Betz, Cr.Photog

Lindsay joined the photography industry when she and Jonathan moved to Colorado in 2006, filling the integral role of studio management in the business. Our client families benefit from her guidance for everything before and after the photography session.

As she has embraced the photography industry, she loves opportunities to teach and present to the community of professional photographers from her expertise on the business side of photography. She has presented to professional photographers on the national platform every year since 2018. In 2022, she was recognized with the National Award for Business Education by Professional Photographers of America (PPA).

In 2019, she earned her Photographic Craftsman (Cr.Photog.), the degree that recognizes those in the photography industry that serve through professional-level teaching. She was elected to the National Council for PPA in 2016 and continues that leadership into her third term. She also serves on the PPA Education Advisory Board Committee. Additionally, she has served on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers Guild of Colorado Springs since 2015.

Proud members of:

Professional Photographers of America
Professional Photographers Guild of Colorado Springs

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Gabe | Palmer High School Senior Portraits | Class of 2020

Gabe is a friendly guy who loves animals, does exceptionally well academically, and a self-described history buff. His favorite eras of history include World War II and the Wild West outlaws. Gabe adores his dog, Marley. When enjoying time outdoors, you’ll likely find him fishing. During high school, he played on Palmer High School’s football team in positions of both safety and outside linebacker.

His session was photographed right at the end of summer and as the senior school year was just getting underway. With his love for fishing and being near water, Cheyenne Cañon was a natural fit for his outdoor portrait setting.

While senior year looks different this year, we are so thankful for all the families who chose us and who have finished art to celebrate their senior’s accomplishments to enjoy now and for years to come. In the midst of some experiences that may feel lost, these senior portraits speak pride and joy over their accomplishment. We’re excited to share some of our favorites from Gabe’s session here and bring some joy into this season for his family and those with whom they share his feature post.

As Gabe wraps up high school, he’s looking ahead to a career in forensics as either a crime analyst or homicide detective. We wish you our best, Gabe, over all your next steps, and may you find plenty of ways to celebrate your graduation!