Meet Angie Smith

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Angie Smith a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Angie, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Overcoming imposter syndrome is a daily battle, especially in a world where social media often amplifies feelings of inadequacy. To combat this, I’ve adopted a few strategies: taking breaks from social platforms when needed, diversifying my feed with inspiring individuals from various creative fields, and regularly reminding myself of my journey by revisiting old photos. By consciously disconnecting from the comparison trap and surrounding myself with diverse sources of inspiration, I’ve found it easier to silence the self-doubt and focus on my own progress. Every day, I’m learning to embrace my journey, from where I started to where I am now, and it’s a journey worth celebrating!

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As a travel wedding and elopement photographer with a background in social work, my passion for people infuses every aspect of my art. I see photography not just as a form of expression, but as a powerful medium for connecting with others and immortalizing their stories. What excites me most is the opportunity to capture moments that will last for ages, serving as cherished memories for my clients.

One thing I’m particularly proud of is creating a space where everyone feels welcomed. Drawing from my own experiences of not seeing diversity represented in galleries, I’ve made it a priority to celebrate individuals from all walks of life. My brand is inclusive and diverse, capturing the beauty of people regardless of age, body type, race, or sexuality.

In terms of what’s new, I’m constantly seeking out new locations and adventures to enhance my clients’ experiences. Whether it’s a remote elopement in a breathtaking landscape or a vibrant cultural wedding celebration, I’m always on the lookout for fresh ways to tell stories through my lens.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been incredibly impactful are my support system, my approach to learning equipment, and my network of supportive peers. Firstly, having an understanding and supportive partner has been invaluable. They know when I need to pour into my craft and when I need to pour into me! Also, friends and family have provided crucial support in my journey. Whether it be sending others to me or booking my services.

Secondly, I’m grateful that I took the time to truly learn my equipment before investing in expensive gear. Starting out in college, I purchased each piece of equipment gradually, mastering its use along the way. This ensured that when I did invest in higher-end gear, I was fully equipped to make the most of it.

Lastly, surrounding myself with a supportive network of peers who were willing to share knowledge and insights without fear of competition has been key. Having a community of like-minded individuals to bounce ideas off of and seek advice from has been instrumental in my growth.

For those early in their journey, my advice would be to prioritize building a strong support system, investing time in mastering your equipment before upgrading, and surrounding yourself with a supportive network of peers who can provide guidance and encouragement.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?

“Atomic Habits” by James Clear (A must-read for all) has been instrumental in my personal and professional development. One valuable insight from the book is the concept of habit stacking, where you pair a new habit with an existing one to make it stick. This has helped me integrate positive habits seamlessly into my routine. Another key takeaway is the emphasis on small, incremental changes leading to significant long-term results, which has been crucial for sustainable growth in my business.

For entrepreneurs, cultivating habits like time blocking for focused work, setting clear goals, practicing regular reflection, and prioritizing self-care can be game-changers. Personally, implementing these habits has not only made me a more balanced individual but has also contributed to the success and efficiency of my business endeavors. This book provides practical strategies for harnessing the power of habits to drive personal and professional growth, making it a must-read for any entrepreneur looking to optimize their habits for success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://angiereneephoto.com
• Instagram: @angiereneephoto_
• Facebook: Angie Renee Photo
• Other: TikTok: @angiereneephoto
  Pinterest: @angiereneephoto

Image Credits

Angie Smith (Angie Renee Photo)