Tracy Joy Camera Bags | Interview * 3 Prizes * and more
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Today I have the privilege of interviewing Tracy of Tracy Joy Inc. She is a very generous person. Read on to learn about her 5% donation program through the end of May and about 3 prizes she is giving away on my blog (see the bottom of this post for details).
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Tracy Joy | The Interview
How long have you been designing and sewing?
Since the 7th grade when I ‘discovered’ sewing class in junior high. I was prob such a dork, getting all excited on how to make a “grocery tote bag” and sweat pants, lol. I haven’t stopped sewing since (or being a dork)! I’ve always found more enjoyment in creating & sewing my own things, vs buying “store” products. From curtains, to bags, to my babies nursery decor/bedding… I try to add my own creative twist on it all. I also don’t use “store” patterns, never have, never will (such a rebel, ha? lol). All of my items are my own design, which I find to be very important, and very satisfying. I never want to be a copy cat, and think it’s important to be known for your own creativity, not someone else’s. Plus… I don’t follow instructions or rules very well, haha!
How did you decide this was a passion for you?
When I graduated high school, I went to college for Fashion Merchandising. I dreamed of creating my own fashion line (didn’t know what of yet; clothes, bags, etc). Sadly, due to financial reasons, I had to drop out in my first year. It always “haunted” me, as designing was my passion and I knew I could create something wonderful that people would enjoy. It’s so amazing (but not surprising) to have found myself back in the design world again, coming full circle. Being creative is in my blood, and flows throughout my whole being.
Before Tracy Joy Inc, I was working for a corporate office, helping to run all of the daily necessities as an assistant manager (of sorts). Being in that business for 7+ years has given me the knowledge and strength to run Tracy Joy Inc. Not only can I be creative and design & sew my own line, but I also know how to run a business inside and out. It makes things run so much more smoothly, than just being creative alone.
What gave the idea for Tracy Joy Camera bags for photographers?
Actually… A couple of women PHOTOGRAPHERS piqued my interest in designing a bag for their needs. And WHALA, it took off from there. My original bag, the KIMBERLY (which is now on hold), blossomed into the KRISTINE & JOEY bags. The REESE bag came after a few clients expressed “wishes & dreams” of a TJ bag w/a zipper on it.
What is your favorite bag you sell?
The KRISTINE. I love the option of flap changes. It’s so convenient to be able to change your flap when you want to change the look of your bag, instead of your entire bag itself. And it doesn’t get much easier than a Velcro flap, coming off to exchange w/another one.
Which ones do you personally use?
Honestly… I have 2-3 of each, lol. I use the REESE as my daily bag, since I have 2 kids under 2. It leaves room for all my necessities and still space for my DSLR camera w/28-75mm lens attached. When I go on a photography shoot, I use my JOEY bag (Velcro flap and extra padding). I can comfortably fit my DSLR in it, with 3 lenses and my wallet & keys. My hubby uses the KRISTINE bag, he likes to have his own “man flaps” for the bag, lol.
What do you typically keep in your photo bag (what camera, lenses, and other stuff) .
Oh all the goodies! lol I have a Canon Rebel XTi, and ALWAYS my Tamron
28-75mm lens attached. I also carry my 50mm 1.8, and my 75-300 for outdoor shots. I LOVE nature photography, so my 75-300 comes in handy when we are outside. I’m adding a 430ex Speedlite to my gear in a few months… but since I use natural lighting 90% of the time, I don’t really need it for the spring/summer months.
What is your favorite print?
Oh gosh, this is NOT an easy question! I have way too many prints, and so many more than I am itching to buy. I can tell you my top 3 favorites though, lol. The Acanthus, Boho Orchid & Disco Dots. Choosing fabrics is the hardest part of my job… seriously! When it comes time to add a new print to my collection, I could go w/o sleep looking over all the choices. Honestly, I wish I was creative enough to design my own prints. This is a far off dream of mine, but you never know… nothing is too far out of reach!
What is the strangest thing you have ever used your camera bag for? (if nothing we will skip this one)
Does a beach bag count? lol We went to Florida last summer and it was the only bag I had large enough to stuff our towels and flip flops in when we went to play in the ocean.
What type of photography do you do?
I adore newborn and maternity photography, esp when it includes a touch of whimsy. I recently did my first “real” maternity shoot, and oh was it fun! Seeing the glow on a pregnant woman is sometimes so surreal, and knowing that new life is just under her skin… simply amazing. I have 3 more maternity shoots now lined up…. and I’m “biting at the bit” to get shooting! I dont currently have a photography website, but I do have my flickr account, where I post my favorite shots. Http://flickr.com/photos/tracyjoy
In addition to maternity and newborn photography, I hope to learn the unique and creative style of Trash The Dress photography. I just love TTD, and always find them exciting and fun to view. I have 2 of those sessions lined up as well (for when the temps warm up a bit).
What are your favorite 3 photographers (with links)?
Well I have to give “props” to the wonderful and VERY talented 2 photographers who helped me launch my camera bags. The are the 2 girls who I mentioned above, regarding “the idea for Tracy Joy Camera bags for photographers“. Both of whom are AMAZING and talented photographers, friends and mentors!
Lisa Hodnet http://www.lisahodnetphotography.com/
& Jessica Leigh http://jessicaleighphotography.com/
And I absolutely LOVE Lisa Julia Photography. She captures so much whimsy and innocence in her child photography… they always make me smile and give me the “warm fuzzies”. http://lisajuliaphotography.com/ . She truly is talented, and such a wonderful person too. A great mentor!
What is the one thing you cannot live without (besides your photo equipment and family):
My Gingher scissors! Ha! They are so uber duber sharp, and cut through fabrics like butta’ I cant go a day w/o my Ginghers 
Tell me about the current donation you are doing for the American Cancer Society…
Tracy Joy Inc is currently running a donation to the American Cancer Society through the month of May. 5% of ALL my sales will go to ACS, in honor of my late sister in laws, Kristine and Amy Beth. They both would have celebrated birthdays in the month of May, so I am honoring their memory w/a donation.
Tracy Joy Inc also runs donations in the months of November, giving to a few different charities at Christmastime. Last year we donated to The American Cancer Society and Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
Giving back is a very important aspect of Tracy Joy Inc, and something we truly believe in.
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Now for the contest and prizes:
Tracy is going to be giving away one Tracy Joy® SUSIE camera strap covers for each of three lucky winners. The winners to pick the fabric from her amazing selection, and trust me, that will be the hardest part.
3 winners will be picked using random.org – from the comments below. With 3 prizes, you have a greater chance to win!!! Winners will be picked on May 21st and notified in a blog post, so check back to see if you are one of the lucky ones!
Next Post: A Fun Assignment | Shadow Pictures
You have such amazing products and your work looks top notch. Thank you so much for sharing.
My wife would love one of those for her camera!
These are soooo cute! I totally want one!
How exciting!!! What beautiful samples!!! I can’t wait to go check out all of these goodies, I am in need of a new bag.–kim
Wow what an awesome interview! I enjoyed reading every bit of it!! I own the Kristine bag and love how it fits all my stuff!! Thank you Jodi for allowing us to get to know Tracy more. And I sooo would love to have a strap match my bag hehe!!
We certainly do not have any bags like these in the UK – I’ll love to be a trend setter
CJx
I loooove Tracy Joy bags! Of course I *need*
lol a matching camera strap – helllo! 
My camera will thank you.
Great work Tracy! My MIL said it was so easy to get a gift for me, going through you.
Super cute idea…. The camera strap reminds me of the older 60′s and 70′s weaved type that I have even went to pawn shops to try and find. I need this product
I absolutely am in awe of these bags!! I recently purchased one after looking everywhere in Australia,but nothing can compare to Tracy Joy!! I will be adding to my collection don’t you worry!! Got mine in the HOT COUTURIER PLATINUM and it rocks…even had my hubby say it’s very sexy!!
I love this site and have already bookmarked. My next investment! I love the fabrics.
I so need a fashionable camera strap.
Thanks , Tracy, for your generous contest donations!
Love your products Tracy. I have been hinting to my hubby for CHristmas. Love the fun camera straps as well.
Would love to win! Got my first dslr for my b-day a month ago from my dad. Ofcourse I received a plain jane boring strap (I am greatful for the camera) but, would love to have a more girly strap and going to get me a bag soon. Love all the choice.
I wish it to be me! I just ordered one of her bags! I can’t wait to get it! Erica Velasco, vision_photographs@hotmail.com
I just ordered a bag 2 days ago. I can’t wait to get it! It would be soo wonderful if I won a strap for my camera! Good luck to all!
I adore Tracy Joy and have a few of my own. I now think that I should “fancy up” my camera as well. One more way to be an original!
These bags are GREAT!!! I never understood why camera bags were so boring! Beautiful designs!!!
I’m so glad to have found TracyJoy’s site, and because of that, to discover this one as well! Thanks to you both for sharing your fabulous knowledge (not to mention style!) with the rest of us!
I’ve never seen such cool camera goodies…and after all, it is all about the accessories!!! LOVE these so much…even if I don’t win one, I’ll have to have one!!!!
Oh my gosh these bags are TDF!!! I don’t know how I will ever decide which one to buy-there is not one that isn’t absolutely stunning! One of each please!!! heehee…
I love TJ bags- don’t own one though
. I love reading your blog Jodi! Thanks for all you do!
I love Tracy’s bags!! I’ve got one of her original Kimberly bags and love it!! But now I’m totally eyeing the new Joey style! Of course my husband will probably not be too happy if I ask him for yet another camera bag lol!
I LOVE THEM!! They are soooo cute! This is the first time I have ever seen them. Did I say I love them!!!
I just got my first SLR camera today for an early birthday(May 20)gift. A Nikon D40 with tow lenses, I love it. Took over 100 pictures of my girls today and oh how fussy they were today. My husband, and parents told me over and over today, you need to hurry up and get a case. So everyone is in bed and I began the hunt for a girly, trendy looking camera case. Little did I realize how hard the hunt was going to be. Finally I tyeped in Girly camera case and found the Tracy Joy site, I am in love. I love to stand out a little bit and the Tracy Joy camera bag and camera strap covers are all about me. I’m hoping to get a little birthday money on my actually birthday and I will be making my purchase.
Thank you for this interview, it us always nice to know something about the person who is making, designed a product you are considering. How much cooler these camera straps look compared to the boring black one on my camera. I will be the envy, hope I win! Happy Birthday to me!!!
Well, now I know what my next wish-list item is!! Gorgeous bags. And how awesome are those strap covers!! I never saw any before. Tracy, what a generous donation, too.
Great interview and such stylish bags! I will definitely become one of Tracy Joy’s newest fans….who wouldn’t covet one? Thanks for the interview and introduction to a fun, beautiful, product.
I don’t have a great bag yet, so maybe at least my strap can have some style!
Wow, these are the most beautiful and most fun camera straps EVER!!! Awesome interview & inspiration!
Ooh! Those are gorgeous! I love Tracey Joy!
I love these!!! They look so comfy too on top of being stylish! I’d love one:)
SOOOO cute! I’d love to add a little style to my camera!
I LOVE Tracy’s bags! I bought a wallet to check out the fabric and its so cute. Now I am ready to get a bag. I’ve been drooling over these for a long time. So a camera strap would complete my collection then! Thanks!
I just ordered my first Tracy Joy bag! Can’t wait to get it!! wonderful interview!
Great interview! I love hearing details about the person behind the product. Super cute fabrics – the camera bag is going on my b-day wish list.
I love the straps. Cant wait to get one!
I love the straps and the bags! The fabrics choices are very pretty. I need some accessories for my new camera
I love the damask print. I’ve wanted one of these camera straps for a long time! Very cute!
Ooh, pick me! I just picked up another camera, and it doesn’t have a strap yet!
I LOVE these camera straps! They are so creative and unique and I would love to win one and have extras! I just discovered Tracey Joy and mcpactions and would really like to get one of your joey bags as well and also need some serious help on my website and blog. Thanks for making these great products! Katie
I love these! Pick ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Jessica
These camera straps are gorgeous. I’m just starting out on photography (with the goal of doing something out of it in the future), but I’ve already grown to love my camera so much. These straps would be a unique, colorful, and inspiring touch to my camera.
And thank you for your help to the American Cancer Society. It personally means a lot to me.
Thanks everyone for all the comments – glad you loved the interview. Keep watching for wednesday when the winners are announced.
“oh oh pick me pick me pick me” (Donkey jumping up and down)…from Shrek!
I’m in the process of trying to decide which fabric I’m going to order my Kristine bag in right now…spending my birthday and Mother’s day gift $$. A matching strap would just be awesome!!
Wow! What cool bags! I need one of those! And I also need a cool camera strap. Thanks for the contest.
Janna
wow I love your bags, great contest
I Love Tracy Joy bags! I’ve been wanting to order one for some time now, but just haven’t gotten around to it yet. Thanks for the chance to win
Thank you for the interview and three prizes!
I and my wife quilt but I think your camera straps are great. It looks like you’ve taken two great loves and joined them.
Keep up the great works of art.
I wouldn’t know which to pick if I won…. such a decision! The bags are so cute… definitely on my wish list
I LOVE these camera straps! They are so beautiful and look so much better than the standard issue ones that come with your camera. What a great way to show off your creative style. Plus, no one else would get their camera mixed up with mine.
An interesting interview. It sounds like Tracy has had an interesting journey to get to her goal.
Oh wow!! These are the neatest things!! I would LOVE a camera strap!!
Oh My…I would love a camera strap! I am a mom of three little children and my how I soooo want to be trendy! This would help me to become well on my way…don’t you think.
I just found your site and am THRILLED! I love Tracy Joy’s work and it’s such fun to see photo bags that are gorgeous, instead of boooooring!
I Love the camera straps and bags. I just discovered your site and have added your blog to reader so now I can get every post.Thanks and I will be ordering some actions…..
You may continue to add comments but I am ending the contest now – at 155 entries. I will be announcing the winners in a little while. So check back. Note – after 99 – it looks like the numbers started at 00 – the 1 is getting cut off. So remember your number if it is after the 00 is 100 and something…
How stinkin adorable!! I’m always looking for ways to add personality into my shoots and love for photography! It just makes things that much more fun!! Hope to win!! Thanks for your creativity!!