We recently connected with Christine Dopp and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Christine, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
Growing up on a dairy farm in a small town shaped the foundation of who I am today. My earliest memories are laced with the smell of fresh hay and the rhythm of daily chores. From the moment I could walk, I was involved—feeding calves, merging, and raking hay, learning the ropes one task at a time.
There were moments in my youth when I resented the responsibilities that came with being the “farmer’s daughter.” Yet, as I matured, so did my perspective. Returning home from college that first summer, I found myself falling in love with the farm all over again. My days were spent working the land, and my nights serving meals at a local restaurant. It was a demanding routine, but it instilled in me a relentless work ethic and a deep appreciation for hard work.
This upbringing taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and self-reliance, particularly when venturing into my own business. In the world of small business, especially as a photographer, motivation must come from within. Whether it’s a slow season, a downturn in bookings, or navigating a global pandemic, the drive to succeed has to be self-sustaining.
The wisdom imparted by my dad and the farm’s day-to-day challenges have equipped me with a toolkit for life and business. These lessons are timeless, offering guidance and strength as I continue to grow and adapt. They have become the bedrock of my resilience and creativity, guiding me through the peaks and valleys of entrepreneurial life.
While my partner Justin got his diligence from joining the Marines after High School. He discovered that lasting success requires perseverance and resilience, especially in the face of adversity. The tough training and experiences in the Marines gave Justin invaluable skills that he brought into civilian life, boosting his drive and work ethic. These lessons still guide him in his personal and professional life, shaping his character and how he tackles challenges.
To my fellow life lessons seekers, photographers, and small business owners, I say this: cherish the roots of your own story. It’s these experiences that shape your journey and illuminate the path to success.
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?
We’re more than just photographers—we’re the storytellers of your life’s most cherished moments. From capturing the sparkle in a couple’s eyes during an engagement to the joy of families growing over the years, we’re here to celebrate your unique story.
We specialize in capturing those natural, journalistic-style photos that make you feel the laughter and love of your wedding day, even years later. Our approach? Keep it real, keep it fun, and always encourage you to be 100% yourself.
With nearly a decade of wedding photography under our belts, we’ve honed our skills in creating rad photos that truly reflect the essence of your special day. The couples and families who choose us value authenticity and a relaxed vibe—if you think we’re the kind of people you’d enjoy having a beer with, then we’re the perfect fit for your big day. And yes, we’ll even bust out our killer dance moves!
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Christine is often described as laid-back, a quality she attributes to her small-town upbringing and being the youngest of six kids. These experiences taught her to appreciate the little things in life and to steal her siblings’ Halloween candy without getting caught—a skill that comes in handy when calming any anxious bride or groom. Once dreaming of being a globe-trotting journalist, Christine found her calling the moment she snapped her first wedding photo.
Justin, the guy with the camera bag full of surprises (like a well-timed beer), is Christine’s willing sidekick. Not only can he pin a boutonniere like a boss, but he’s also the one turning up the music to kickstart the party. If you need a laugh, Justin’s vast repertoire of movie quotes has got you covered, and rest assured, it’s all PG-rated for grandma’s ears.
On your big day, you’ll find Christine capturing the heart of the event while Justin climbs trees for that perfect shot, using his ninja-like skills to uncover the story behind the story. Every day is an adventure for us, filled with laughter, nature, and maybe a taco or two.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Past Experiences that have helped us have empathy & wanting out clients to feel comfortable & unique infront of the camera. Each person is unique & they are what makes that person amazing! We want to make sure they feel that way infront of the camera & in their photos.
Our Humor allows people to feel comfortable and laugh with a joyous and true smile. And yes we adore those double chins, all that love & happiness lives in those chins!
What do I mean by the ability to skirt the line of emotion and business? I mean, have empathy with your clients, but know you are a business, too. Leaning too far towards emotion will leave you to be taken advantage of. I learned this early in life from my Dad on the farm, and it’s helped me become successful.
The biggest advice is always to be yourselves & learn the business side before the creative side – the business side is way harder.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am dying to partner with more small businesses who want unique of one-of-a-kind images that showcase their brand!
Along with rad humans who want an authentic experience infront of the camera that feels more like you’re making memories than a photoshoot.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://naturalintuitionphoto.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturalintuitionphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/naturalintuitionphoto
Image Credits
Main Bio photo is by Cassie Rosch Photography all others are ours taken by us 🙂
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
