Margaret is one of my good Portland pals and one of the most fun and insightful people a person could know. On top of being just delightful, she’s also a great photographer and (she took these photos of me last year!) and has one of the best out there. I am so happy you get to meet her!
Tell me about yourself?
I’m Margaret J. First off, know that I like, no adore and love brunch. I think it is the most perfect meal. Now that we have that out of the way, I’m a mother of two wild children. I think they’re almost the best humans to ever walk this earth. Even when they draw with permanent marker on my couch and my walls… Even then. My best friend and partner Leif, is THE BEST human to ever walk this earth. Although, he doesn’t always do the dishes. I can forgive him for that I suppose. I’m a photographer of four and a half years now. Born and raised outside of L.A. and now residing outside of Portland. And hopefully soon will be living in Europe. I believe in magic and believe you should always, always dance. Especially to Beyonce.
What’s one of the most transformative things you’ve learned in recent years?
Okay, so the most transformative things I’ve learned happened this year. I’ve been shooting for awhile now, but I never felt right about following the photography formula. I wanted to run my business very art based, yet wasn’t feeling like there was the market for it. Then I watched as so many people, succeeded, who weren’t per say the greatest artists. It boggled my mind. And it hit me one day, they work HARD. They created their own MARKET. I’ll be honest, I was waiting for things to fall into my lap, yet nothing really did. As soon as my mentality towards my business changed, so did my work load. I’ve learned that I have to be disciplined, because talent will only take you so far. I’ve learned that I need to find value in my own work, so that then others can to. I’ve learned that working hard ALWAYS pays off. It can be a big payoff, or even the tiniest payoff, but it always pays off.
What do you think people would be surprised to learn about you?
That I love K-pop and Korean dramas. Also, that I’m very self-conscious about sharing my work. I feel as if its an extension of myself so I really struggle putting it out there. I’ve told people this constantly, I have to tell myself that it’ll be okay, and if no one likes it, at least I loved it.
Who is one of your biggest inspirations?
Kara, you know this, Beyonce. DUH! But in all honesty, Miranda July is my inspiration. I think of her often, and her career. I like that she just pursues what she wants to pursue. I like that she’s open and honest about the struggle, and even open about failing. I’m a perfectionist when it comes to work and I hate when I fail or mess up.
What do you think is one of the keys to living a happy and beautiful life?
Not taking life too seriously. Remembering that there is no RIGHT way to live. You are your own unique person, so you need to live the way that resonates with you. There are no rules which is fun, we get to make them up as we go. I also believe being open and kind benefits your life. It allows people to come into your life, that you wouldn’t normally be drawn to, and it allows you to have life experiences that you learn from. Last but not least, remembering that we always have a choice.
Let’s say you were showing friends around Portland, where would you go? What would you eat?
I would take them to Sauvie Island. Down to the water. There’s nothing like it. Its beautiful, calming, and majestic. Its mind blowing that its just outside of the city. A tiny piece of heaven. Of course we would go to brunch. Most likely at Broder or Besaws.
Is there an artist, musician, person you wish more people knew about?
My friend Chloe Jennings. We actually met via the internet and have just remained good friends. Everything she puts out there is beautiful and moving. I swear she can do every type of art, but photography is what she does the most. I’ve never seen anything like her work before. She also bought an old house and has remodeled it ALL BY HERSELF! Girl is younger than me, and all around kicking ass at life. She’s on the Instagram: .
Margaret Jacobsen was photographed in NW Portland and in the West Hills. Check out more hey, i know you! features here.
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yay for beyonce.xx
dreaming is believing