Chelsea Hickey shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Chelsea, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
This is a crazy time of year so there really is no “normal day” Each work day is dependent on what part of my business needs attention, whether that is client relations, sales, style & concept consultations, admin work, networking or a session. Everyday starts with me getting up and getting my kids ready and off to school and walking the dog, often while listening to a personal or business development audio book. On an ideal day I can fit in a workout or yoga session before beginning whatever is on the calendar, but often my appointments are in the way. My work day wraps up at 3pm when my kids come home from school and I switch back into mom-mode. I love to relax and watch TV or read after they go to bed, but occasionally I fit in a bit of extra work time. Then I wake up and do it all over again!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Chelsea Hickey, owner of Chelsea Hickey Photography – a luxury photography studio specializing in portraiture and storytelling. On one side of my business I serve families, from custom in home or studio newborn sessions, to documentary and day-in-the life photo & film sessions, to outdoor sessions to fine art portraiture. On the other side I serve business owners and professionals with custom studio and on location branding sessions and headshots. Being a luxury photography studio means that not only do my clients receive gorgeous images that help them meet their goals, but they also experience next level service along the way. All of my sessions include personalized wardrobe styling, on site professional hair and make up, in person image selection, an array of top quality personally curated heirloom products, custom wall art design and installation and more!
Offering this level of service is much harder work, but I’m passionate about providing my clients with a great experience as well as serving them in a way that makes the process easy and stress free and allows them to get exactly what they want.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a huge art nerd. In school I didn’t play sports. Instead I spent all my free time making things – polymer clay pieces, board games, t-shirts, pottery, jewelry, photography, paintings, stop-action-animation films. I wanted to be a Disney animator or work for Jim Henson. I applied to an Animation program at an art school but didn’t get in. They offered me a spot in the Graphic Design program instead which I turned down and ended up at a Alfred University School of Art and Design majoring in Oil Painting and Digital Imaging. I left school assuming I was never going to make a living with my degree. I worked a number of jobs including waiting tables at a fine dining restaurant in Boston, I got my real estate license and worked in college rentals, and I ended up in graphics and print roles at Bain & Co. and Pfizer.
I’m fortunate to have a supportive husband who helped me break free of the path I was on and explore my creative passions. If it weren’t for him I don’t think I’d be where I am today.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I think imposter syndrome has been a big challenge for me that I still struggle with from time to time. Sometimes it seems like the more successful I am the more it nudges it’s way into my brain. I wouldn’t say it holds be back anymore, but it’s absolutely a struggle and can sometimes trip me up. But I’ve learned how to recognize and acknowledge it so that it doesn’t get the best of me.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie that I see photographers telling themselves is that there aren’t people out there who value what they do. They set low prices out of fear, and therefore they attract those who already undervalue them. Not only is placing the right value on what you offer to clients going to lead to a more successful business, but it also helps change the industry standard for photography, of which there is not really one to begin with. Essentially, the more photographers can elevate their service into the luxury market the more consumers recognize photography as a luxury.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When it comes to my photography I truly feel that I’m contributing to the world by giving families and individuals tangible, visual memories that they will keep with them forever, and pass down after they’re gone. This concept is what drives me, especially when it comes to family photography. My ego would hope someone remembers who took that photo, but knowing it is special to them is really enough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chelseahickeyphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelseahickephotography
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chickeylittlephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chickeylittlephotography
Image Credits
Chelsea Hickey Photography
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