Team
OUR TEAM
JEN SMITS
Photographer & Managing Director
Jen's love for photography began at an early age. She earned her BA in Photography with a minor in Communications from Grand Valley State University in 2007. That same year marked the inception of her first portrait photography venture, Shutterbug Photography. Since then, Jen has immortalized countless moments, ranging from weddings and engagements to births, family portraits, and senior sessions. Her lens also captured the essence of various businesses, including renowned entities like Van Andel Institute, The Right Place, Foremost Insurance, Make-A-Wish, and The Ford Foundation, among others. After a short break and a complete rebrand, Jen unveiled Fresh Start Studios in 2020. Amidst the pandemic, she expanded her services, cultivating a passion for forging partnerships with realtors and small business owners. Her goal? To empower them with top-tier visual marketing assets. With over 17+ years of industry expertise, Jen has emerged as a trusted figure in West Michigan's photography and real estate sector. Her dedication to excellence and commitment to fostering lasting relationships have cemented her reputation as a reliable ally and partner.
In her free time, you can find Jen traveling, skiing, boating, being a baseball mom, and spending time with her husband Matt, son Asa, friends, and family.
MEGHAN HOLT
Photographer
Meghan is a West Michigan native whose love of photography started by documenting her life and quickly transformed into a passion for helping others do the same. She prides herself in her ability to communicate with clients and ensure their vision comes to life. She studied photography through college and that education has since allowed her the freedom to stay home with her children while also running her own family and lifestyle photography business. Meghan has worked with different companies to photograph events and assist in business rebranding. She is so excited to join the Fresh Start Studios team!
When she's not behind the camera, Meghan enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, camping at the beach, going on adventures with family and friends, and relaxing with a good show and a snack.
FRESH START COLLECTIVE
Fresh Start Collective serves as the visionary force behind Fresh Start Studios real estate photography and Fresh Start Property Management Group, both owned and operated by the dynamic duo, Jen and Matt Smits. As the parent company, Fresh Start Collective embodies a commitment to innovation, excellence, and client-centric service in the real estate industry. Fresh Start Studios specializes in capturing the essence and beauty of properties through stunning photography, helping clients showcase their listings in the best possible light and attract potential buyers or tenants. Complementing this, Fresh Start Property Management Group offers top-notch management services, ensuring property owners experience peace of mind while maximizing the value of their investments. Together, under Jen and Matt's leadership, Fresh Start Collective fosters a culture of creativity, professionalism, and integrity, setting new standards of excellence in the real estate sector.
