Photos and Philanthropy: Gloss Photography Studios
- 3805 N.Oakland Ave. • 414.332.0195
- www.glossphotographystudios.com
Thinking outside the box comes naturally to Jaci Sumner. That’s apparent to anyone who walks
into Gloss Photography Studios, her business on North Oakland Ave. Artistic and beautiful
photos of families,weddings, children and more dress up the walls of the cozy interior. The studio feels more like a funky living room than a storefront, complete with Sumner’s laid-back dog, Stella, napping in the corner.
Sumner, 28, graduated from UW-Milwaukee in 2006, where she earned her degree in photography and fine art. That same year, she opened Gloss, and her studio has moved around the Shorewood business district since. Gloss’ current location marks her third move, and she’s been here for just over two years.
“We’ve been really fortunate with Shorewood,” Sumner explains.“There are so many beautiful and different pockets here. And I really like the business district because it’s growing so quickly.”
Sumner’s business is also growing. While her services are popular during wedding season, the walls of her studio showcase her versatility. With images of pregnant women, babies, children, pets, teens, high-school seniors, families and even the occasional boudoir photo, Sumner knows how to mix it up, yet bring her signature sense of artistry to each type of shoot.
“From the beginning, I didn’t want to specialize in one type of portraiture,” Sumner says.“I wanted to keep myself fresh by not always doing weddings or always doing babies. Changing it up keeps my style out of the box and unique to each client.”
Between busy times, Sumner gives back through her work. She started a foundation, Project Stella, in 2009. “It’s named after my lazy, baby dog,” Sumner says, adding that she adopted Stella from the Wisconsin Humane Society and wanted to help the organization raise funds for its programs.
For two months each year, Gloss offers pet photo shoots at a reasonable flat fee. Owners get an 8 x 10 inch print of their pet and tickets to the closing event that includes drinks, appetizers, entertainment and a silent auction. Sumner is proud that 2011’s fundraiser brought in $8,000, topping 2010’s $5,000.
Shorewood resident Jennifer Anderson has had her family photos taken at Gloss, and she also owns a rescue dog that participated in Project Stella. She says Sumner and her team are a great asset to the Village.
“I think they’re awesome,” Anderson says. “Jaci has a great eye, and a unique way of capturing a person’s personality with a photo. I think it’s great that they’re here in Shorewood. We should really show our support for local businesses like Gloss.”