Meet Cassidy Drury

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

Cassidy, thank you so much for joining us and offering your lessons and wisdom for our readers. One of the things we most admire about you is your generosity and so we’d love if you could talk to us about where you think your generosity comes from.
My grandmother, known in our family and to many around her as “Nonny,” has been the embodiment of generosity in my life. Growing up, I watched her unwavering kindness and giving nature, which shaped my own understanding of what it means to be generous. Nonny has a unique way of making everyone around her feel cherished and valued. Her generosity isn’t just about material possessions; it is the gift of time, attention, and empathy that she freely shares with others. She has taught me that true generosity is about selflessly offering a piece of your heart to those around you.

As I grew older, the lessons I learned from Nonny’s selfless actions became an integral part of who I am. Her compassion and the joy she found in uplifting others created a ripple effect in our family and community. Through her, I’ve discovered that generosity isn’t just a one-time act, but a way of living that brings profound fulfillment.

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?
I’m Cassidy Drury, and I’m thrilled to share with readers, a glimpse into my creative world.

Wedding photography is where my heart truly belongs. Collaborating with these incredible couples isn’t just about capturing their special day; it’s about weaving their unique love stories into timeless images. Working alongside such fun and genuine people is a gift in itself. The chance to freeze those once-in-a-lifetime moments is an opportunity I cherish endlessly.

I love being able to capture the intricate beauty of life through the lens of my camera. At www.cassidydrury.com, you’ll find a collection of my most cherished photographic works, each telling a unique story and reflecting the emotions that color our experiences. What truly excites me about my art is the ability to freeze moments in time, preserving emotions, stories, and connections that might otherwise fade away. My goal is to evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder in those who view my work, reminding them of the magic that exists in both the ordinary and extraordinary.

Mentoring fellow photographers and empowering them with the tools to thrive in their businesses is a passion that ignites my soul. There’s an undeniable joy in sharing the knowledge and insights I’ve gained throughout my own journey, watching as others blossom and succeed. I believe that by nurturing a sense of community over competition, we can collectively elevate the art of photography while fostering an environment of support and growth. Guiding aspiring photographers to navigate the intricacies of the industry, from technical skills to branding and marketing strategies, brings me immeasurable satisfaction. Witnessing their progress and witnessing the camaraderie that flourishes within this community is a testament to the incredible power of collaboration and shared enthusiasm for our craft.

I’m also proud to be one of the brains behind a thriving community right here in Kansas City known as The KC Rising. Our mission? Bringing together photographers, models, and creative souls from all walks of life to ignite community spirit, spark creativity, and facilitate learning. The coolest part? Our events are an open door for anyone, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, we’ve got your back. It’s all about networking, sharing insights, and building portfolios that speak volumes about your unique creative journey.

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?
Looking back on my journey, I’ve come to realize that three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have played the most significant role in shaping my path: perseverance, continuous learning, and networking. First and foremost, the unwavering determination to persevere through challenges and setbacks was the driving force that kept me on track. It’s important to view failures as stepping stones to growth and to never lose sight of your goals, even when doubts arise.

Secondly, the commitment to continuous learning has been pivotal. Photography is an ever-evolving field, and the eagerness to expand my knowledge has allowed me to adapt to changing trends and technologies. Engaging in online courses, workshops, and keeping up with industry literature has been crucial in refining my skills and staying relevant.

Finally, networking has proven to be a game-changer. Building connections within the photography community and related fields has opened doors to unexpected opportunities and collaborations. Participating in workshops, conferences, and local meetups has allowed me to exchange insights and ideas with fellow photographers, models, and creatives, fostering a supportive network that has propelled my journey.

For those just embarking on their own creative journey, my advice is to embrace patience and persistence, as success takes time. Cultivating a curious and hungry mindset for learning will keep you adaptable and innovative. Reach out and connect with others in the field, as building a community can provide invaluable guidance and encouragement. Celebrate even the smallest achievements, stay true to your unique style, practice consistently, and be open to constructive critique. Remember, your journey is your own, and by remaining committed to growth and embracing the process, you’ll make strides beyond your imagination.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Without a doubt, my mom has been the most instrumental figure in helping me overcome challenges and nurturing the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge I needed to achieve success. Her unwavering support, guidance, and belief in my abilities have been a constant source of inspiration. From a young age, she instilled in me the values of perseverance, empathy, and continuous learning. She’s been there every step of the way, offering a listening ear during tough times and celebrating my victories with genuine pride. It’s from her that I’ve learned my passion for providing excellent customer service, as she’s always been the embodiment of going the extra mile to make others feel valued and cared for. Additionally, my outgoing personality, which has been a key asset in my journey, is undoubtedly inherited from her. My mom’s wisdom, encouragement, and unshakable belief in my potential have been the driving force behind my journey, shaping me into the person I am today.

Excitingly, I’ve recently welcomed her onto my team at Cassidy Drury Photography. She now holds the role of VP of Operations, contributing her invaluable expertise behind the scenes. With her on board, tasks such as managing emails, contracts, and intricate planning have become a streamlined process. Her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence mirror the very qualities she helped me develop over the years. It’s a privilege to have her not only as my guiding light but also as an integral part of the operational backbone that ensures our clients receive top-notch service and care.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Personal Headshot: Claire Ryser Photography

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