Jennifer Strauss, featured trover

Name: Jennifer Strauss (online presence Jennifer Leigh Strauss Photography and JenEyePher). There are way too many photographers with the name Jennifer Strauss so I have to use my middle name. I received the nickname JenEyePher because I used to photograph closeup shots of my eyes/pupils, always trying to capture the reflection of the world around me in the reflection. I have managed to capture cars, streets, trees, Christmas tree lights, etc. in my eyes.

Location: Born and raised in Hollywood, under the 3rd O of the Hollywood sign, near the old Batman caves. Currently residing in Los Angeles, California (technically Little Ethiopia).

“Day Job”: I work with children, mostly age 2-7, diagnosed with Autism, providing one-to-one behavior intervention in school, home, and community settings. Now I have a dual role at the Non-Public Agency I work for, serving both as a Behavior Case Supervisor (managing the cases and behavioral instructors) as well as the Training Coordinator for the agency. I currently have a Masters in Applied Behavior Analysis and I am working toward my BCBA to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I love what I do. I wake up every morning excited to go to work. Not many people can say that about their day job.

What are you working on now? Aside from working with children with Autism, I have a passion for photography. Whether I’m shooting children's birthday parties or gallery events, I love capturing the beauty of memorable moments or art to share with others. Most of my photography adventures these days revolve around urban exploration. I shoot anything from children to street art, flowers and abandoned buildings, to brides, rust, and crust. I love just getting in the car, getting lost, and taking pictures along the way. I blame my mother for this.

Why do you do what you do? If you are asking why I work with kids, I always knew I would work with children in some form or fashion. I always thought of myself as Mrs. Garrett from “Facts of Life.” I was a Psychology major and am a Pisces. I was doomed to be super sensitive and helpful.

My subject matter inspires me because... Street art, in particular, inspires me because of the ever changing urban landscape and form of self-expression. As a big fan of urban photography, I can photograph the same wall every Saturday for a year and none of those photos will ever look alike.

Trover is... long overdue. It is a wonderful source to allow me to explore the world around with me via pictures, interesting facts/tips, and directions!

Trover tip: Post weird roadside attractions. The more offbeat, the more random, the more bizarre, the better. Whether you are on a road trip in unfamiliar territory or just fart knocking around your own neighborhood - try and post things that are unique!

My best discovery ever is: The Garden of Oz in Beachwood Canyon, Hollywood, a secret location in the Hollywood Hills. Story goes that the owner was an advisor to the Pope back in the day. She created this garden and sent random children throughout Los Angeles keys to access the garden. It’s beautifully decorated with mosaics and tiny toys and even has a mailbox that you can place letters in that will be sent to the Grand Ol' Oz.

Browse all of Jennifer Strauss' discoveries

Find Jennifer

Facebook (photography, events, and street art)
Facebook (personal)
Tumblr
Flickr