Meet Ann Marie Grocholski

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ann Marie Grocholski. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Ann Marie, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?

As a motherhood and family photographer, one of the biggest assets to my business has been turning 50! The life experiences that I have had as a mom of three girls who has gone through dramatic career changes, has provided me with life experiences which allow me to empathize with what many of my clients are going through. I have been through the struggle of growing a family during times of uncertainty. Or, the anxieties of balancing caring for a baby, a family, and the stresses of day-to-day life. I know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed as you try to be the “perfect mom” while also maintaining your sense of self. All of these personal experiences, allow me to provide a peaceful and encouraging experience for each of my clients.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

As a photographer, writer, and former non-profit executive, I find joy in blending my artistic passion with a heart for service. As part of my work to document the lives of families across the Twin Cities, I have a special initiative called ‘Images of Strength and Hope.’ This special program is dedicated to families and individuals navigating special needs, a complicated pregnancy, or recovering from trauma. ‘Images of Strength and Hope’ is photography which celebrates resilience, love, and, most importantly, hope, through the lens of those who have braved life’s toughest challenges.

Photography, to me, is a powerful medium for storytelling. It’s about capturing the essence of people’s lives, be it a family welcoming a newborn, a young woman stepping into her senior year, or a lively household bustling with toddlers. My approach to photography transcends traditional posing; it’s immersive, intimate, and brimming with love. Each session I conduct is a collaborative journey, ensuring that the essence of every individual and family is authentically captured, reflecting their personality and preserving their unique story at that moment. I deeply value the connections I build with each client, who quickly become part of my extended family.

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?

Take the time, to define your vision and goals for your work and revisit this regularly. This will provide a strong foundation upon which your business can grow. Ask yourself, who is my ideal client, what type of work ignites my passion, and where do I see myself and my work in a year, 5 years, etc. This will bring you a sense of surety as you do your day to day tasks because you are in tune with your goals.

Don’t be afraid to say no! As a photographer, it is easy to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. Remember, for every no that you give, a new yes that may be in line with the work you are really passionate about will be available to you.

By finding your niche, and defining exactly what you want to do and whom you want to serve, you will work with your ideal clients more and more.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am looking to collaborate with others who serve the same types of clients as I do. For example, I love to collaborate with other types of businesses or organizations that serve families who are undergoing fertility treatments because over 50% of all of my maternity and newborn clients have gone through IVF, adoption, or surrogacy. Their journeys to parenthood have been long, thus, leading them to want to preserve the culmination of this journey through a photo session. I also like to collaborate with Doulas or other pre or postnatal providers.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.amg-photos.com/
• Instagram: @annmariegrocholski
• Facebook: @amgphoto

Image Credits

My own: AMG Photography