
San Francisco Photographer Jay Kenneth Usselman (a.k.a. Uncle Jay) posing in a blue shirt holding his camera in one hand and a peace sign on the other. Taken by Chris
I am Uncle Jay
Hi there!
Uncle Jay is what so many people have started calling me — so as of July 2025, the business officially became Uncle Jay Photo (formerly Jay Kenneth Photography). If you're looking for an experienced photographer in the San Francisco–San Jose Bay Area, I specialize in having fun while helping people, couples, and families look and feel their best.
My path to photography wasn't exactly conventional. From servicing dusty security cameras at Chase Banks across Northern California during the recession to chasing sun-drenched landscapes across the western United States, my journey led me to a simple realization: beauty surrounds us, waiting to be captured. Today, I'm not just documenting moments — I'm helping people preserve the ones that matter most.
Every family has a story, every milestone deserves to be remembered. Whether it's a maternity session glowing in golden hour light, a family gathered in the park, or a corporate event buzzing with energy, my passion is finding the real moments in between the posed ones — the laugh, the glance, the hand on a growing baby bump.
My style is as diverse as the Bay Area itself. I can capture your family with the soft glow of natural light rolling through the hills, or bring sharp, energetic coverage to a packed corporate mixer downtown. One thing stays constant: my commitment to capturing you and the people you love in your best light.
Trust matters on every shoot. I know that stepping in front of a camera, whether you're a nervous mom-to-be or a room full of coworkers at a launch event, can feel a little awkward at first. That's why I create a relaxed, fun environment where people can be themselves — my favorite part of the job is watching nervous energy turn into real laughter, right as the shutter clicks.
Beyond the studio, the Bay Area is my playground. I'm always hunting for hidden gems, quiet gardens, and stunning vistas that add another layer of magic to a session — whether that's the urban energy of San Francisco or the rolling hills further out.
Ready to capture your family, your milestone, or your next event? I'm just a click away. Let's talk about your vision, take a look at my portfolio, and figure out how to tell your story.
Contact me today and let's make it happen! #unclejayphoto

























