Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Danielle Church. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Danielle, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
When starting my business, I created my brand with the quote “Every Moment Matters,” and that is my purpose for my business and in my personal life. Being a photographer, I get to capture some of the smallest and biggest moments in someone’s life, which is why I chose to pursue photography. I believe that we are given this life for a reason, and with that comes the moments we get to create. For myself and others, I look back at photos and remember that very moment, the details, everything. Even growing up, I was that friend who was always taking pictures, so from a young age, I was able to understand that pictures are one of the most important things you can have and to share with others.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m a lifestyle photographer based out of Charlotte, North Carolina. While being a photographer, I am also a girlfriend to an amazing man of almost 7 years and a dog mama. My photography business is about capturing the moments in life. While being able to capture the moments in someone’s life, I also strive to help others and be my clients biggest hype woman. During a session, I love being able to get a couple out of their shell, which ends up being a time full of laughter and some amazing images as the final product. When behind the camera, my safe haven, I not only get to help others, but I also get to step out of my shell as well.
Since starting my business, I have learned that I am creative, and if I have a vision, I can do everything to make it happen. In photography, I have started doing more creative sessions and capturing more timeless details. This year, I plan to build on both of those concepts. I have a whole list of creative sessions I plan on doing this year to add to my portfolio. I have not announced it yet, but I am working towards getting a certificate in graphic design/digital design, so I plan to use that to hopefully start up doing stationary design and brand products.
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?
The biggest quality that impacted me was passion. When you are passionate about what you are doing, it ends up showing in your work. It is a quality that has helped me not only in my business but also as a person. Passion has had me pushing and striving to step outside of the box and to move towards a successful business. In photography, there’s a lot of knowledge you have to learn, and without a doubt, it can be challenging. The most impactful knowledge I have learned is knowing the ends of my camera. It takes time and error, but eventually it starts to piece together and come naturally. Just like learning my camera, I also had to find my skills. Being able to capture details is the most impactful skill for me. My goal is to capture moments, and to do that, I’ve gained an eye for details. When capturing details, you end up telling a story with your images.
My best advice for anyone is to step out of their comfort zone. If you have a passion, go for it. I know it is easier said than done, but trust me, the journey is worth it. This goes along with anything. I have found that stepping out of my comfort zone has led me to where I am now as a business owner and in my personal life.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
Imposter syndrome. As a photographer, I know this challenge is very common. The best way to describe it is to believe you are not good enough at your work. Near the end of 2023, I had this feeling that my work was not good enough, and I was comparing myself and my work to others. It truly made me miss out on opportunities that could’ve been amazing for my business. As a self-taught photographer, you aren’t taught about the doubts and fears you will have when building your business, such as asking for advice. I was scared to be judged or for others to think I didn’t know what I was doing. oster syndrome. As a photographer, I know this challenge is very common. The best way to describe it is to believe you are not good enough at your work. Near the end of 2023, I had this feeling that my work was not good enough, and I was comparing myself and my work to others. It truly made me miss out on opportunities that could’ve been amazing for my business. As a self-taught photographer, you aren’t taught about the doubts and fears you will have when building your business, such as asking for advice. I was scared to be judged or for others to think I didn’t know what I was doing.
I’ve learned that it’s all in your head. We have all started at some point, and we are all on a journey. Yes, it may be different for everyone, but in the end, you are looking for success. It has pushed me to learn more and learn from others, and I now have several photographer friends who I can ask for advice from. I have learned to celebrate my accomplishments, even the littlest ones. You have to learn to value your skills. Everyone is unique and has their own style, and that’s what makes your business yours.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.raeannphotographydc.com/
- Instagram: raeannphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RAPhotosEveryMomentMatters/
