We were lucky to catch up with Amber Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.
Amber, 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.
Imposter syndrome is very real, especially in the beginning of starting a business. I remember in the first few years, when people asked me what I did for a living I felt like I was lying telling them that I work for myself as a photographer. As the years went on though and my skills improved so did my confidence. I think overcoming really just came down to gaining confidence in my abilities as a wedding and portrait photographer.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a wedding and portrait photographer, located in Detroit, Michigan. I photograph weddings and people all over Michigan. I’ve been in business for 10 years now and have photographed well over 200 weddings! I love getting to meet new couples, who eventually turn into family clients. It’s been the greatest pleasure photographing people’s milestones over the years!
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?
Being resilient is a big one when you work for yourself. The highs and lows are constant but the freedom you have is worth it. In hindsight, I wish was more knowledgeable in the business aspect of things. Taking pictures is the easiest part about being a freelance photographer!
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Other local photographers have played a HUGE impact into who I am today. I’ve learned so much over the years from other fellow photographers, by second shooting or just becoming friends with other vendors. It’s amazing how much you can still learn just from talking to another person in the same filed as you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amber-marie-photography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amariehphoto
Image Credits
Amber Marie Photography (me!)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
