Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melissa Nansen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Melissa, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Oh man, I totally have not overcome imposter syndrome!
But you know what? That’s okay! Imposter syndrome is a common feeling among many creative professionals, and it doesn’t mean we’re not good at what we do. In fact, I think it often means the opposite – that we care deeply about our craft and want to do our best.
The truth is, I believe that no matter how successful you become, there will always be moments when you feel like you’re not good enough. I think the real power comes, not in overcoming the imposter syndrome, but in learning how to navigate those feelings. If you can learn to work with them you can take steps to address the fears and become even better at what you do.
One of the ways I combat imposter syndrome is by surrounding myself with a community of other photographers and creatives who build me up and encourage me. We share our work, give each other feedback, and support each other through the ups and downs of running our own businesses. It’s amazing how much of a difference it can make to have a group of like-minded individuals who understand what you’re going through.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m a luxury senior photographer who takes pride in delivering creative and stylized sessions. As a single member of my company, I get to put my heart and soul into every shoot, ensuring that each photograph captures the essence of my clients and helps tell their story.
What I love most about my work is that I get to create an experience for my seniors and their families that they will treasure for a lifetime. I work hard to ensure that each shoot is creative and fun and enjoyable for my clients. It’s an honor to be able to capture such precious moments in someone’s life, and I take that responsibility very seriously.
I have learned that a successful photo session is not just about capturing a moment, it is about telling a story. By taking the time to understand the story that my client wants to tell, we can work together to create a truly captivating session. I love thinking through all the details from the location, to the lighting, to the poses and expressions captured, every element of the photo session is carefully crafted to convey a specific emotion or message. At the end of the day we have created photos that are not just beautiful, but also meaningful.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
First is resilience! It takes a ton of work and determination to build a business from scratch, especially when you’re doing it alone and have no idea where to start! There were so many times I felt like giving up, but I was way too competitive to quit. Each roadblock is just a different way of looking at things.
Second, finding ways to stay creative. Every time I begin to feel stuck I would dedicate some time to myself and create a project that is just for me. This helps stay engaged and passionate about your work. At the same time, it allowed me to have a fresh perspective, try out new techniques, and improve my craft.
The third thing all of us 80’s babies learned from Mr. Rogers. Look for the helpers. This also connects to the most important advice I have for anyone starting out is to practice “community over competition”. It is so easy to look around and see other creatives as competitors, but the reality is we are all in the same race. Build your network, and grow your community! Find the people in your craft who are willing to help you. In the beginning, you will be a sponge and will feel like all you do is take, but soon you will be active in the give and take. And once you have become an expert teach someone else!
And stay away from the gate keepers, ain’t nobody have time for that!
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
I am a Brené Brown fan to the core. While all of her books are amazing I always go back to “Dare to Lead”. She speaks to what it means to be brave, have courage, and have integrity. How you live your values is how you show up to lead and in life. I can’t even do it justice telling you how impactful it has been for me. I have multiple copies of the book and also the audio version that she reads. I am always in a constant start of growth and this book helps with embracing vulnerability, setting clear boundaries, and cultivating a strong sense of empathy and connection with those around you. And any time I have moments of doubt I pop on the audio version and let Brené bring it back to perspective.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.melissanansenphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissanansenphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Melissa-Nansen-Photography-693684521091366/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@melissanansenphotography
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@nansen.pics
