JESSICA O'CONNOR

Freelance Writer & Photographer

The equine, canine, and outdoor sport industries are, in my opinion, built on a foundation of passion. I believe that passion and practicality can coexist, and that belief takes center stage in my emotive (yet informative) writing.

My experience as a content/blog writer, newspaper journalist, and magazine contributor allows me to easily tailor my writing to fit each brand's voice and each piece's purpose. This ability to adapt, paired with a bounty of attention to detail, allows me to craft copy that ranges from informative to entertaining.

I pride myself on my ability to build relationships with those I work with. This allows me to further develop the brand's voice in my writing by getting to know editors and publishers on a personal basis. More importantly, it breathes life into my interviews with your sources.

In my experience, the best interviews happen when the source feels relaxed, comfortable, and understood. When a source opens up to me, it becomes easier to gather not only the facts but the little things that give an article "something extra."

Although the bulk of my published writing thus far has been within the realms of newspaper and the canine/hunting industries, I've been involved in the equine industry my entire life. Some of my earliest memories revolve around leafing through The Quarter Horse Journal, a treat delivered to me by my grandparents' neighbor each month. I've owned and shown Quarter Horses and a Paint at open and AQHA events over the years.

I don't personally show at the moment, but I stay abreast of the industry via my work as an equine photographer. I am currently the official photographer for the Palmetto Paint Horse Club, South Carolina Quarter Horse Association, Carolinas Cutting Horse Association, Carolina Paint Horse Association, and North Carolina Palomino Exhibitors' Association. I have also shot for Tryon International Equestrian Center and worked as a second shooter for several hunter/jumper photographers.

I was a writer before I became a photographer, and that's evident in my work. I'm well versed in the standard shots for each class and discipline, but I delight in creating candid imagery that is equal parts artistic and journalistic. My goal is to create images that are not only beautiful but an intimate peek inside the world of equine competition. The bond between horse/dog and human is one I know on a deeply personal level, and it's something I aspire to show the world the beauty of with every click of the shutter.

Below you will find samples of a few of my published articles as well as examples of my imagery for your perusal. I look forward to getting to know you and your publication. Please feel free to contact me via the form below if you'd like to discuss how I can help you serve your readers.