We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dj Curry. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with DJ below.
DJ, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Confidence and self-esteem are not things you’re born with; they’re cultivated through life experiences, conscious effort, and the decision to grow. For me, this journey wasn’t an overnight transformation but a steady climb, shaped by the people I surrounded myself with, the wisdom I sought, and the mindset I committed to building.
One of the most significant steps in my journey was observing and learning from successful business owners. These individuals had an aura about them—calm, collected, and intentional in how they carried themselves. I began paying close attention to their posture, the way they spoke with conviction, and how they approached challenges with resilience. I realized that their confidence wasn’t just innate; it came from preparation, experience, and self-belief. By studying their habits and behaviors, I began to implement small changes in myself. I started speaking with more clarity, making eye contact, and owning my decisions. Each small step boosted my confidence and reinforced my belief in my own capabilities.
In addition to learning from people in my immediate environment, I turned to podcasts to expand my knowledge and understanding of the world. Podcasts became my go-to source of inspiration, wisdom, and motivation. Listening to the stories of successful entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and motivational speakers gave me insights into their struggles, triumphs, and growth journeys. Through these podcasts, I learned about the power of a positive mindset, the importance of self-discipline, and how to stay focused on long-term goals. They helped me understand that everyone starts somewhere and that failures are part of the process. This shift in perspective allowed me to embrace challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than as roadblocks.
As I absorbed these lessons, I realized that confidence isn’t just about what you know it’s about how you think. I made a conscious decision to cultivate a positive mindset. This involved reprogramming my inner dialogue to be kinder and more constructive. Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t do, I began to focus on what I could achieve. I started setting small, achievable goals to build momentum and prove to myself that I was capable. Each accomplishment, no matter how small, became a stepping stone toward a greater sense of self-worth. I also began practicing gratitude, which helped me shift my focus from what I lacked to the abundance of opportunities around me.
Over time, these practices transformed how I saw myself and the world. Confidence and self-esteem grew not from a place of arrogance but from a place of assurance, grounded in knowledge, experience, and a positive outlook. By observing and learning from business owners, immersing myself in podcasts, and committing to a strong mindset, I’ve built a foundation that allows me to face challenges head-on and pursue my goals with clarity and purpose. This journey has taught me that confidence isn’t about being fearless; it’s about moving forward despite your fears, armed with the belief that you’re capable of achieving greatness.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Photography is more than just a profession for me; it’s a passion deeply rooted in my love for capturing the most meaningful moments in life. As the founder of Pics So Perfect Photography, I’ve had the honor of preserving memories for couples, families, and event hosts who trust me to tell their stories through my lens. Specializing in weddings, engagements, and events, my work is centered around love—that unexplainable connection that binds us together and I’m privileged to freeze those fleeting, intimate moments that speak volumes without words.
My journey as a photographer began long before Pics So Perfect Photography became a reality. Growing up, I was always captivated by the magic of cameras. My parents owned a camera that I was restricted to touch because of how valuable it was. That restriction only heightened my curiosity, and I often found myself imagining the stories that could be told through its lens. It wasn’t until I grew older that I truly understood the value of a camera, not just as a physical object but as a tool to document life’s most cherished moments. That realization was the catalyst for my journey into photography, turning a childhood fascination into a lifelong pursuit. Pics So Perfect Photography is more than a brand; it’s an extension of who I am. My approach to photography is intentional and heartfelt. I strive to capture the joy, the laughter, the tears, and the quiet, tender moments that make life beautiful. Every client I work with is unique, and my goal is to deliver images that reflect their personalities and the genuine emotions of their special day. Being part of someone’s milestone moments is a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and it’s what drives me to consistently produce work that’s both timeless and authentic. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to achieve milestones that affirm my dedication to this craft. I am proud to be the preferred photographer for The Morrow Hotel in Washington, DC, a recognition that underscores my commitment to quality and professionalism. Working with such a prestigious venue has allowed me to showcase my ability to adapt to different styles and settings, ensuring that every photo session is as unique as the clients I serve.
Last year, I expanded my business by adding a 360 Photo Booth, a decision that has been incredibly rewarding. This addition has not only elevated the services I offer but has also brought an extra layer of excitement to the events I’m part of. The 360 Photo Booth creates an interactive and immersive experience that guests absolutely love. It’s been a game-changer for my business, allowing me to provide even more value to my clients and helping to make their events unforgettable.
At Pics So Perfect Photography, my love for photography is matched only by my love for the people and stories I have the privilege of capturing. Whether it’s a couple exchanging vows, a family celebrating a milestone, or a guest enjoying the thrill of the 360 Photo Booth, I’m dedicated to creating moments that last a lifetime. Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about preserving the essence of a moment so it can be cherished forever. That’s what I aim to do every time I pick up my camera. Pics So Perfect isn’t just a name; it’s a promise to make every shot as perfect as the memories they represent.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, I’d say three key qualities and skills were the most impactful in my journey: adaptability, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous learning.
“Adaptability” allowed me to navigate the unique challenges that come with each client, event, and setting. No two weddings or events are the same, so being able to adjust quickly while still delivering exceptional results has been crucial. For anyone starting out, I’d suggest embracing flexibility and being open to learning from each situation, even if it’s outside your comfort zone.
“Attention to detail” has been instrumental in capturing those intimate, meaningful moments. Whether it’s the tear in a father’s eye or the laughter shared between friends, noticing these details transforms photos into memories. To develop this skill, focus on being present and observing everything around you those small moments often carry the most emotional weight.
Lastly, “continuous learning” has shaped both my craft and my mindset. From studying other photographers and watching tutorials to listening to business and mindset podcasts, I’ve always prioritized growing my knowledge. My advice to others would be to never stop investing in yourself. Stay curious, seek out new techniques, and surround yourself with people who inspire you to grow.
These qualities didn’t just develop overnight they took time, practice, and reflection. Start by focusing on one area, and with dedication, you’ll see incredible growth in both your craft and confidence.
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?
The person who has been most helpful in helping me overcome challenges and develop the skills, qualities, and knowledge I needed to be successful is my mom. She has been my biggest supporter throughout my journey and has played an integral role in shaping the person I am today.
From the beginning, she has always believed in my dreams and has gone above and beyond to ensure I had the tools to succeed. She taught me how to manage my finances, helping me understand the importance of budgeting and planning so I could build a solid foundation for my business and personal life. She also guided me in writing professional emails and reaching out to decision-makers, skills that have been crucial in networking and growing my photography business.
My mom’s support didn’t stop there. She has even invested in my dream by buying me camera equipment and accessories, giving me the tools I needed to sharpen my craft and take my photography to the next level. Her unwavering encouragement and belief in me have been the backbone of my journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything she has done to help me thrive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.picssoperfect.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pics.so.perfect/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/earl.curry.58/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PicsSoPerfect
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