We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Abigail Ross. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Abigail below.
Abigail , 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.
Starting my photography business at 15 was both exciting and terrifying. I was just a teenager, trying to turn my passion into something real, and honestly, I often felt like I wasn’t “qualified” enough to call myself a professional photographer. I’d see photographers with years of experience, expensive gear, and big client lists, and I’d question if I really belonged in the industry. In the early days, imposter syndrome showed up in so many ways. I underpriced my work because I doubted my value. I hesitated to promote myself because I was afraid people wouldn’t take me seriously. I even caught myself downplaying my accomplishments, thinking, “I’m just a high school student who happens to take pictures.” But despite the doubt, I kept showing up. What helped me push through was proving myself to myself—one shoot at a time. Every happy client, every beautiful image, and every repeat booking reminded me that my work had value. I also had to shift my mindset: instead of comparing myself to seasoned professionals, I started focusing on my own progress. I reminded myself that even the best photographers had to start somewhere, and the only way to truly grow was to keep going.
Another game-changer was embracing learning. I invested in courses, studied lighting techniques, experimented with editing styles, and practiced relentlessly. I realized that no one ever truly “arrives” at being perfect—we’re all constantly improving. That understanding gave me permission to take up space in the industry, even as a young entrepreneur. Now, nearly a decade later, imposter syndrome still whispers from time to time, but I’ve learned to silence it with action. I remind myself that my passion, dedication, and the relationships I build with my clients matter far more than any self-doubt. The truth is, we don’t have to wait for permission to be great at what we do—we just have to believe in ourselves enough to start.
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?
For those who don’t know me, let me introduce myself. I’m Abigail Ross, the owner and creative force behind Ross Photography Company, where I specialize in capturing milestone moments for high school and college seniors. What started as a passion project when I was just 15 has now grown into a full-fledged photography business that allows me to tell the unique stories of each senior I work with. What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to create images that feel both timeless and deeply personal. Senior year is such a defining moment—it’s the transition from one chapter to the next—and I love being able to freeze that excitement, confidence, and anticipation in a way that my clients will cherish forever. My goal is always to make my sessions more than just photoshoots—I want them to be an experience where seniors feel celebrated, confident, and authentically themselves.
What makes Ross Photography Company unique is my ability to blend a professional, high-quality approach with a personal, customized touch. From selecting the perfect locations to incorporating personal elements like future college gear, sports jerseys, or even champagne pops for grads, I ensure that every session reflects the individuality of the senior in front of my camera.
As for what’s new, I’m always looking for ways to expand and enhance the client experience. This year, I’m focusing on: Expanding my offerings – I’ve introduced new session packages that include more customized locations and styling guidance to make shoots even more tailored.
Curating senior guides – I’ve created detailed Senior Guides for both high school and college graduates, helping them prepare for their session with outfit ideas, prop suggestions, and tips for making the most of their photoshoot.
Growing my online presence – I’m working on making my website and social media even more engaging, offering behind-the-scenes content, posing tips, and inspiration for future clients.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue elevating the senior photography experience while empowering my clients to feel confident in front of the camera. I want every senior I work with to look back at their photos and see more than just an image—I want them to see a moment that made them feel proud, excited, and ready for the next step in their journey.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey as a photographer and business owner, three qualities have been the most impactful in shaping my success:
1. Adaptability – Embracing Change and Learning on the Go
When I started Ross Photography Company at just 15, I had to learn everything as I went—how to work with clients, how to manage bookings, and even how to adjust to different lighting situations on the fly. Photography (and business in general) is constantly evolving, whether it’s new trends, updated camera technology, or changing client preferences. Being adaptable has helped me stay ahead.
Advice: If you’re early in your journey, don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Be open to learning, whether it’s from online tutorials, mentorship, or trial and error. The more you embrace change, the more you’ll grow.
2. Relationship-Building – Connecting with Clients Beyond the Lens
Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing emotions and making clients feel comfortable. One of the biggest reasons my business has grown is because of word-of-mouth referrals and repeat clients. People remember how you made them feel during the experience just as much as they remember the final images.
Advice: Build genuine connections. Engage with people beyond the transaction—ask about their stories, make them feel valued, and create an experience they’ll want to share with others. Strong relationships will take you further than just talent alone.
3. Business Mindset – Balancing Creativity with Strategy
It’s easy to focus solely on the creative side, but running a photography business also means understanding pricing, contracts, marketing, and time management. I had to learn how to price my work confidently, create an efficient workflow, and market myself effectively to reach my ideal clients.
Advice: Treat your passion like a business from the start. Learn the basics of branding, pricing, and client communication. Investing in tools like contracts, scheduling software, and financial tracking will help you grow sustainably.
At the end of the day, success in photography (or any creative field) isn’t just about talent—it’s about how well you can adapt, connect, and strategize. Focus on developing those skills, and you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Without a doubt, my parents have been the most influential people in shaping my journey as a photographer and business owner. Both of them are entrepreneurs, so I grew up watching them build and run their own businesses. Seeing their work ethic, resilience, and commitment firsthand was the best education I could have asked for. When I first picked up a camera as a teenager, it was just a hobby—but my parents saw the potential in me before I even saw it in myself. Instead of dismissing it as just another creative outlet, they encouraged me to take it seriously and helped me turn it into something real. They taught me not only the importance of mastering my craft, but also how to think like a business owner—how to price my work, manage my finances, and, most importantly, believe in my value.
Starting a business at 15 wasn’t easy, and there were plenty of moments of doubt. But my parents were always there to remind me that every successful entrepreneur starts somewhere. They pushed me to take risks, learn from my mistakes, and keep going even when things felt overwhelming. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to believe in myself.
Now, years later, I see so much of what they taught me reflected in my work—whether it’s the way I connect with my clients, the pride I take in my brand, or my drive to keep growing. I’m forever grateful that they gave me the courage to start and the wisdom to keep building something I love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rossphotographycompany.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rossphotographycompany
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rossphotographycompany
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-grace-ross
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
