STARTING PHOTOGRAPHY
I never imagined photography would play such a big role in my life. It all started when I picked up a camera and began capturing moments that felt so special and fleeting. What began as a simple hobby quickly turned into something I couldn’t put down. I found myself drawn to real moments and emotional expressions, inspired by the everyday beauty around me.
To practice and gain experience, I decided to offer $20 mini sessions. This gave me the chance to work with a variety of clients and improve my skills. At first, I shot in automatic mode, which felt safe but also limited my creativity. Then, during one of these sessions, I finally mustered up the courage to switch to manual mode. That decision changed everything for me!
I was so lucky to receive guidance from amazing photographers like Olivia Burch from Olivia Burch Photography and Miranda Clark Selby from Selby Films. Their support and advice helped me refine my skills and discover my own style.
For a couple of months, I shot in manual mode, but I quickly realized I still wasn’t getting the most out of my camera. I learned that adjusting the ISO was just one piece of the puzzle. Understanding how to balance shutter speed, f-stop, and aperture opened up a whole new world of possibilities in my photography. With every shoot, I grew more confident and began capturing images that truly reflected the essence of my subjects.
One session that really stands out for me was a short maternity shoot. It was such a beautiful experience to capture the excitement and joy of new beginnings. The connection between the parents-to-be was so strong, and I loved being able to document such a special moment in their lives. After this session, I felt so proud of what I had created. It showed me what I could achieve, and I couldn’t wait to grab my camera again!
The turning point for me came when I realized I wanted to create beautiful memories not just for family and friends but for everyone. This pushed me to invest in better equipment and build my portfolio. Starting my own photography business felt like a leap of faith, but it was definitely the right path for me. I set up a small website, launched an Instagram page, and reached out to friends for portfolio work. Before long, word spread, and I started booking clients for family sessions, engagement shoots, and events.
Photography is so much more than just capturing a moment for me—it’s about telling a story. I love capturing memories that people can cherish for years. Whether it’s the joy of a maternity session or the excitement of a family gathering, photography lets me connect with people and capture the essence of life. As I continue on this journey, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my passion and create lasting memories for my clients.
