Meet Debi Spencer-Zerby

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Debi Spencer-Zerby. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Debi below.

Debi, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

To keep my creativity alive, I am always learning whether it is through new training, following other creatives, or finding inspiration in everyday life. I enjoy taking an idea or theme and allowing my imagination to shape it into something beautiful and unique. I also make an effort to stay ahead of current trends so my work continues to grow and evolve, while still remaining true to my style.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My interest in photography began when I was a little girl growing up in my hometown of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I always brought a camera with me to summer camp and loved looking through other people’s photo albums when visiting their homes.

That interest deepened in university in 2002 when I studied forensic photography and later used those skills during my career as a forensic investigator. As I traveled around the world, I became more passionate about learning the technical aspects of photography and capturing the perfect image.

At first, I focused on landscapes and travel photography. I entered a few contests and was thrilled when several of my photos placed in the top five. One of my Canadian landscapes came in second in an international contest. Not long after, a friend asked me to photograph their newborn and family—and that is where my journey into portrait photography truly began.

In 2014, I began extensive training to learn the many facets of running a portrait photography business. My clients’ trust in my ability to create lasting, beautiful memories is my top priority, so I have studied under some of the best in the industry.

Early in my career, I was mentored by Bogi Photography in Germany. I have since invested heavily in newborn photography training, including hands-on education with world-renowned photographer Ana Brandt in California and multiple online courses taught by award-winning Australian photographer Kelly Brown. I also attend annual in-person training and participate in monthly online courses to keep my skills sharp and current.

I am certified in newborn safety through APNPI (Accredited Professional Newborn Photographer International) and became a qualified newborn photographer through their program in 2023. Earning this credential involved demonstrating my knowledge in lighting, composition, family posing, newborn posing, and safety to a panel of industry leaders.

Today, I work from my cozy home studio in Cheyenne, Wyoming, which includes both a main studio and a lifestyle space. My prop rooms are well stocked with a wide selection of backdrops, props, and wardrobe pieces for newborns, babies, children, and expectant mothers.

I was incredibly honored to be voted Best Photographer in Cheyenne in both 2023 and 2024 after moving here in 2022. I am deeply grateful for the way this amazing community has embraced me and my work.

As a published, award-winning photographer, I specialize in all things family from newborns and maternity, to children, cake smashes, families, high school seniors, couples, professional headshots, and small business branding. I also photograph special milestones such as military promotions, retirement ceremonies, and adoptions. My goal is always to make each session unique and memorable for every client.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

To be a successful photographer in today’s competitive market, one that is saturated with people who own a camera, you need more than just a nice camera and some technical skills. In my experience, three of the most important qualities are strong communication skills, patience, and creativity. You need to be confident enough to put yourself out there and willing to do things a little differently.

Most importantly, you must focus on giving your clients an exceptional experience. Long after the session is over, it is how you made them feel that they will remember. That lasting impression is what truly sets you apart.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

I have been fortunate to have several photographers support and guide me throughout my journey over the past decade. Photography is a career that requires continuous growth, and I have always made it a priority to keep learning and pushing myself creatively.

One of the most influential mentors in recent years has been Ana Brandt, a world-renowned newborn and maternity photographer based in California. Over the past two years, her training and insight have helped me elevate my photography to the next level. Through her guidance, I have not only sharpened my technical skills but also learned how to effectively market my business transforming it from a side hustle into a thriving, full-time career.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

All the photos including my headshot were taken by me. Debi Spencer-Zerby Photography

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