The Artistic Eye of Jasmine Hohenstein
Tara A. Spears
If a picture is worth a thousand words, then photographer in residence, Jasmine Hohenstein of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada is a billionaire. This seasonal resident of Jaltemba Bay delights social media with her powerful photography of everyday Mexican life. Upon meeting this petite lady, it’s easy to understand why her photos have so much life: Jasmine radiates positive energy!
“Creating beautiful photographs is not about the equipment, it’s about the eye of the photographer” explained the vivacious Jasmine Hohenstein. “It’s also luck to be in the right place at the right time to capture something beautiful.” Jasmine doesn’t consider herself to be a professional but rather ‘a walkabout photographer’. Perhaps it is her appreciation and zest for life that unconsciously guides her eye to snap the perfect view of everyday things.
Amazingly fit for 62 years old, Jasmine loves walking hours every day- and always has her camera. Her sunrise photos are stunning! While most people sleep Jasmine is welcoming the day wherever she is. An enthusiastic world traveler,
Jasmine has visited 80 countries. She has remarkable memories to share about her experiences in Asia, Africa, South America, and Europe. “With speaking German, English and Spanish, I have managed to communicate wherever I go,” said Jasmine. “I find that being friendly and respectful towards people is an easy way to make new friends. Even when I get lost I’ve met some great people!”
Not only is Jasmine a devoted walker, but she cycles and snow skies as well. “We love to ski at home which is why we come to Mexico only February and March. Hiking in the Mexican jungles is a nice contrast to our winter activities.” When asked about her physical routine, she replied that what is important is to not make excuses-get up and do it daily.
Jasmine says it was a gradual path to becoming a serious photographer. “I didn’t take classes, I choose to use a simple point and shoot camera.” She started taking photos because she wanted to have a visual souvenir of her travels. Due to her love of art and color, jasmine would volunteer to decorate her bank for the various holidays. Based on the positive customer response, Jasmine gained confidence in her eye. One year Scotia Bank held a photography contest and Jasmine submitted several photographs. She won first and second place! “I felt so encouraged that I began taking more photographs and taking more time to plan the compositions.”
With its stunning natural flora, fauna, and strong light, coastal Mexico is a photographer’s’ delight. For the last 15 years, Jasmine and her husband Heinz have vacationed in Jaltemba Bay. “We love the people, the outdoor activities and contrast with our cold latitude home.” Another development that enabled Jasmine to share her talent with others is when camera became digital. “Now I can easily put my photographs online or send to others that request a copy of a picture.” You can connect with her on FB messenger ‘jasmine hohenstein’ or email: jas.ho@hotmail.com
More and more people appreciate Jasmine’s work. A few years ago Jasmine started creating note cards with her photos on them. These original photos of Mexican life are available for sale at Hala’s Mayan Hamaca stores. 100% of the sale is donated to the local animal rescue non-profit, JEEP. “I’ve raised $6,050 pesos for the group,” said Jasmine. It’s a great way to take home a memory from a vacation and help out a worthy group.
This season, Jasmine wanted to challenge herself to learn to play the ukulele. You can see her most mornings strumming away on the beach. “I’m able to play several songs now!” Banker/ photographer/ musician: Jasmine is a true renaissance woman!
Jasmine also has several slide show presentations with her photography. She likes to share her view of life with groups. “I hope that my photos will inspire others to see what’s around you.” She has this advice for getting great photos: “Just take a camera and look at what’s right in front of you-notice the beauty in simple things.” Lucky for Jaltemba Bay that Jasmine loves to share her beautiful memories of Mexican life!