We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Danni Harris. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Danni below.
Hi Danni, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My faith in God and what he is capable of is what drives my optimism. Countless times I have stepped out on faith and God has continued to provide for me in spite of the neigh sayers. When I opened the photography studio back in 2021 during the pandemic when many businesses were failing, I continued to trust in God and work hard towards my ultimate goal of running a successful business. There were impediments that presented themselves in numerous occasions but I didn’t doubt my ability to move past them because I had already seen what God was capable of doing. You will never know where your journey will take you unless you try.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At The Portrait Boutique, my role as a photographer/owner is to capture the essence and beauty of everyone through my lens. We specialize in portrait photography, with a focus on empowering and building confidence in women of all ages and backgrounds. Our mission is to create a safe and supportive space where people can embrace their individuality and celebrate their unique beauty.
What sets The Portrait Boutique apart is our commitment to understanding each person’s story and desires. We believe that everyone deserves to feel confident, strong, and beautiful, and we aim to reflect that in our photography. Our sessions are not just about taking pictures; they are about fostering a positive and uplifting experience for each client.
One of the most exciting aspects of our photography is witnessing the transformation that takes place during the sessions. Many women may come in feeling unsure or hesitant, but as the session progresses, they start to relax and embrace their inner strength. Seeing their self-assurance grow and witnessing the moment when they truly start to believe in their beauty is incredibly rewarding.
Photography can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and self-expression. Through our work, we aim to challenge conventional beauty standards and encourage women to embrace their uniqueness. Our portraits focus on capturing the authenticity and individuality of each woman, highlighting the qualities that make her special.
Building confidence in people is at the heart of what we do. Society often imposes unrealistic beauty standards, and many women struggle with self-doubt and insecurities. Our photography sessions serve as a powerful reminder that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and ages. By showcasing each woman’s strengths and unique features, we aim to inspire self-love and acceptance.
In addition to the photography experience, we also offer support to events that encourage self-care, self-expression, and personal growth. We believe in creating a community where people can support and uplift each other, fostering a positive and nurturing environment.
At The Portrait Boutique, photography is not just a profession; it is a passion and a calling to make a positive impact on the lives of women. We are also extremely proud to be nominated for the Best Photography Studio in Jacksonville and being one of the 3 finalist! Winner will be announced 8/22 so wish us luck! Win or lose, we are grateful to be chosen as one of the best by the people in our community.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Creativity and Vision: One of the most critical qualities for a photographer is creativity. Having a unique vision and the ability to think outside the box allows you to create distinct and captivating photographs. Developing your creative eye involves studying various art forms, experimenting with different styles, and constantly seeking inspiration from the world around you. This can be cultivated by regularly engaging in creative exercises, exploring diverse photography genres, and immersing yourself in the works of other talented photographers.
2. Technical Proficiency: Alongside creativity, having a strong foundation in the technical aspects of photography is crucial. Understanding camera settings, composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques empowers you to translate your creative ideas into well-executed images. Learning the technical aspects can be achieved through online tutorials, workshops, courses, and practice. It’s essential to master your equipment and software to ensure consistency and quality in your work.
3. Business and Marketing Savvy: As a business owner, you need to wear multiple hats, and being knowledgeable in business and marketing is vital for long-term success. Understanding how to price your services, manage finances, handle contracts, and market your brand effectively will contribute to the growth of your photography business. Constantly learning about business strategies, staying updated on industry trends, and seeking mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs can significantly enhance your business acumen.
Advice for early journey photographers and business owners:
– Never Stop Learning: The world of photography is ever-evolving, and there’s always something new to discover. Continuously seek opportunities to learn and improve your skills. Attend workshops, watch tutorials, read books, and engage with the photography community to expand your knowledge.
– Build a Portfolio: Creating a diverse and impressive portfolio is essential to showcase your talents and attract clients. Focus on quality over quantity, and curate your portfolio to highlight your strengths and preferred photography style.
– Embrace Criticism: While it’s wonderful to receive praise, don’t shy away from constructive criticism. Feedback from peers, mentors, or clients can provide valuable insights and help you grow as a photographer. Use criticism as a tool for improvement and not as a discouragement.
– Network and Collaborate: Building relationships within the photography community and collaborating with other creatives can open up new opportunities and expand your horizons. Attend photography meetups, join online forums, and connect with fellow photographers to share experiences and knowledge.
– Stay True to Yourself: In a competitive industry, it’s easy to get influenced by others or feel pressured to conform to certain trends. While it’s essential to adapt to the market, always stay true to your artistic vision and style. Your unique perspective is what will set you apart and attract the right audience.
– Be Patient and Persistent* Success in photography and business doesn’t happen overnight. It requires dedication, hard work, and patience. Stay persistent in your pursuit of improvement and success, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks or challenges.
Remember, photography is not just a profession; it’s a passion. Embrace that passion, stay committed to your craft, and let your love for photography shine through in your work and business endeavors.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Take a Break: When you’re feeling overwhelmed, step back from the situation or task causing the stress. Take a short break to clear your mind, engage in a favorite hobby, or simply go for a walk outside. Giving yourself some time and space can help you gain perspective and recharge.
Prioritize and Organize: Create a to-do list or prioritize the tasks at hand. Breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable steps can make them feel less daunting. Focus on completing one task at a time rather than trying to tackle everything at once.
Limit Distractions: Identify any distractions that may be contributing to your overwhelm, and try to minimize them. This may involve turning off notifications on your phone or creating a quiet, clutter-free workspace.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to additional commitments or tasks when you’re already feeling overwhelmed. Setting boundaries and prioritizing your well-being is essential for maintaining balance.
Practice Self-Care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times, but taking proactive steps to address and manage those feelings is essential for maintaining well-being and productivity. Find the strategies that work best for you and incorporate them into your daily routine. Be kind to yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theportraitboutiquejax.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danni_the_photographer/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dannithephotographer/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@danniharrisphotography
Image Credits
Danni Harris, The Portrait Boutique Jacksonville FL
