ABOUT JACQUE

Hi! I’m Jacque!

I am a Utah based photographer whose home away from home is in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. My love for the outdoors really developed while skiing in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah from the age of 5, and spending summers at Cheley Colorado Camps from the age of 12. Camp in particular really helped shape my love for the mountains. It was my sanctuary where I found a sense of peace and serenity in those mountains and created a spiritual like bond in the process.

I always loved taking photos of nature as a kid. This led to the beginning my professional photography journey in 2009. I have always found the most growth in my art anytime I am able to showcase that connection with the outdoors. In every moment I photograph, I am trying to capture a spectacular point in time that has brought me that deep sense of connection.

In persuit of growing my connection with the mountains, I had the opportunity to check off a major goal by visiting Nepal in 2018 and trekking to Everest Base Camp. The following year I also summited Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. I have plans to return to Nepal soon for higher feats and continue to nourish that profound bond I have developed with the mountains.

On December 31, 2021 my childhood best friend from camp passed away. It brought up a lot of memories but it also made me realize how truly special that place was to us and how much it saved me in some of her darkest moments. My wish is that every child has an opportunity to attend a summer camp, to allow them to find their own connection, have a safe sanctuary where they are free to be themselves, and help them grow confidence in their abilities to reach for their dreams.

I would not be persuing my dream of Everest if it weren’t for the things I learned and confidence I gained from camp. I am Climbing for Campers. Through the John Austin Cheley Foundation I hope to raise money through my climbing to send kids to camp who otherwise could not afford it.

“In these mountains we share smiles, swapping tales for miles, and when we’re through, what am I without you?” -Shelby Newly