Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ally Davis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Ally , really appreciate you opening up about a very personal topic with the hopes that it can help someone out there who might be going through it. What can you share with us about your journey with postpartum depression and how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
After having my son in 2021, I experienced Postpartum Depression. It snuck up on me, and once I realized it was really overwhelming. It was one of the hardest seasons of my life. I was elated to be a Mama and loved getting to experience motherhood. But, I felt guilty because I wasn’t able to bond with my son like I’d dreamed I would. I had really sad thoughts about my ability to be a mother, and I was consumed by depression most days. I was irritable and sometimes had to do a “double take” at myself for the way I reacted to certain situations.
Looking back, I really wish I had been more present during the first year of my baby’s life. However, I try to give myself grace because I know now I was battling PPD. I had all of the symptoms, but it is so hard to be aware when you are in the middle of such a hard season.
I wouldn’t have been able to get through postpartum without my amazing husband. He was always willing to go above and beyond to serve me when I had hard days. He loved me really, really well and never made me feel guilty for how I was. He helped me process the emotions I was feeling and he encouraged me to begin therapy. It was the best decision I ever made! After a couple of months working with a counselor, I felt so much better. It felt really good to know that I was not alone and that the feelings I was having were out of my control. I learned so many skills that I still tap into today.
To any mama reading this who is experiencing PPD, you are not alone. PPD can feel very isolating, but please know that it does not make you weak to ask for help. I highly recommend counseling, but there are also many medicines that will help. You do not have to suffer. You are strong. You are the best Mama for your baby.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hey y’all! I am Ally- a birth, maternity, and family photographer based on Conroe, Texas. Birth photography is my absolute passion. It sets my soul on fire to get to document such a magical event. Birth moves so fast and I love getting to freeze those intimate moments in time for my client’s to reminisce for years to come. I am passionate about encouraging women to unlock their inner power as they welcome their baby into the world and show them just how beautiful they are while doing it! The documentary stye of birth allows me freedom to capture so many beautiful emotions and connections- the partner sweetly supporting during the intense moments, the way Mama’s breath is taken away as she brings her baby to her chest, and those first cuddles during golden hour. I also get the privilege of meeting amazing families and telling their stories through my art. I love photographing maternity, motherhood, and families in addition to birth. During my sessions, we play games and I create a space for families to interact as they normally would while I document that genuine connection. Time is fleeting and it is so important to remember all of the sweet details.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
To someone early on their journey of having a photography business:
Please give yourself grace. Take your time, enjoy it, and find a great community. Social media is only a highlight reels, but remember that every photographer started somewhere. Please do not expect yourself to be all you strive to be overnight. It takes time to learn and grow, but that is the beautiful part! Even the best photographer out there is still looking for ways to grow their craft. You will be so proud when you look back at all the ways you invested in yourself. I hope photography always brings you joy. You deserve to feel happiness doing what you love! There are so many opportunities for creative shoots and community events. My hope for you is that you find some and take the leap of faith to join that community. It can be scary at first, but I promise it will be a huge blessing to you. I believe in community over competition. There is a space for everyone and it is beautiful to cheer one another on as we all succeed! Imposter syndrome can be a really real thing for artists, so please be more kind to yourself. You bring something to the client experience that makes you unique. No one can be YOU like you are. I am so excited for you! Get ready for so many amazing memories. You can do anything you set your mind to!
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I am feeling overwhelmed, I take time to reset by doing things that bring me happiness. I try to change my perspective by spending time with family and going into nature. I put the windows down and sing at the top of my lungs! I like to dance with my family in our living room (and I am a horrible dancer….lol!) When I am feeling overwhelmed in the busy seasons of photography, I find ways to feed my creativity like attending styled shoots, holding creative model calls, and taking photos of my loved ones. I try new things that are out of my comfort zone. I take moments to remember all I have overcome and why this business is important to me. I speak affirmations over myself and remind myself that it is okay to take breaks.
Contact Info:
- Website: Allydavisphotography.com
- Instagram: @allydavisphotography
- Facebook: Facebook.com/allydavisphotography
Image Credits
Profile photo taken by Photos Ni Maryjo, edited by Ally Davis Photography
