Basic Photography Classes (Technical Class)

Hi! My name is Jen Martodam.

I’m a dreamer, a seeker of light, and a lover of the Earth. I long to know the story behind almost everything I encounter. There’s an invisible pull I feel toward creating.

My home is just outside Minneapolis, MN from June-November. From December-May, I reside in Flagstaff, AZ.  Loves of mine include being an auntie, nature, mountains, and travel. Every night, I watch Wheel of Fortune. I’ve got a thing for Kevin Bacon.

Being a family videographer feeds my nostalgic soul. Old home movies from childhood are gold to me. There’s magic in watching my parents interact with my siblings & me and viewing myself as a child.

Like all the Christmases when my family would bundle up and head to my grandparents’ house to celebrate. Two have since passed but hearing their voices and seeing their smiles is a comfort. These links to the past are treasures that I’m grateful to own.

I began photographing in 2007 and ran a successful wedding photography business for 10 years. When the time was right, I transitioned to lifestyle family films and photographs.

I’m also a former elementary school teacher who now teaches DSLR photography and videography.

Emerald Rue is all about serving others with heartfelt imagery, films, and valuable content. It’s about gifting nostalgia to others.