What happened when I put my phone away
The last time I was in Europe was 20 years ago. I was a student at the University of Cincinnati and we spent 8 weeks hopping from Paris to Brussels to San Sebastián to Rome and more. It was incredible!
This time, was extra special as my husband and I spent 10 days in Italy, celebrating our ten year wedding anniversary. We ate gelato every day. Hiked the coast of Cinque Terre (11/10 recommend!). Explored the historic sites of Rome. Tried some of the best Chianti in Sienna. It was a dream.
I expected Italy to inspire me with beautiful architecture, incredible food, and endless photo opportunities. Instead, it reminded me of something I've been unintentionally losing while running a business: the ability to simply be present. And as we're recovering from the jet lag and insane amount of walking we did - I'm reflecting on a few things…
ONE
Putting my phone away was one of the best things I could have done. I wanted to film content and look at reel ideas but I said no. It does NOT matter. What matters is being present in the moment, enjoying time with my handsome husband, living for now (and not social media).
TWO
It's ok to step away from business to take a vacation. As a solo business owner, everything rests on my shoulders. (Raise your hand if you feel that) And not checking emails, not posting brand sessions to IG, not working - phew. It is hard. But guess what? Everything is still here! And me? I feel refreshed and excited to jump back in. I needed this break.
THREE
Seeing a new part of the world has inspired me. I have ideas I want to execute. I have business plans I need to see come to fruition. I have so many thoughts and dreams swirling around in my head! Italy was so incredibly scenic and photogenic and aesthetic - how do I bring that into my photography?!
Why This Matters Beyond Travel
Italy reminded me that the best stories aren't always the ones we document the most—they're the ones we actually experience.
As business owners, it's easy to feel like every moment has to become content. But after ten days of intentionally keeping my phone in my pocket, I came home with a different perspective.
I don't want to help my clients create *more* content. I want to help them create the *right* content.
That's why every branding session starts with strategy. We talk about your goals, your audience, and the story you want your business to tell before I ever pick up my camera. Because when your photos have purpose, they don't just fill your social media—they build trust.
This trip also reminded me that authenticity can't be forced. The best moments happen when you're fully present, and that's exactly the experience I want every client to have in front of my camera.
If Italy taught me anything, it's that the best stories aren't manufactured—they're lived. And I think the same is true for great branding.
Italy gave me incredible memories, beautiful photos, and a much-needed reminder that life isn't meant to be experienced through a screen.
As I returned home, I found myself carrying that same mindset into my business. I want every client to leave a branding session feeling like they were present, comfortable, and truly seen—not like they spent an hour posing for the camera.
If you're building a business that's rooted in connection and authenticity, I'd love to help you tell that story.
Jessa is the owner of Jessa Plante Photography, a branding photographer based in Loveland, Ohio, serving entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the Cincinnati area. She believes great brand photos are about more than looking professional—they're about telling your story, building confidence, and creating images that work as hard as you do.
