We were lucky to catch up with Gracie Hagen recently and have shared our conversation below.
Gracie , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Finding my purpose has been an evolving journey, rooted in my passion for art, human connection, and the empowerment of individuals. I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty and uniqueness of every person I photograph. This fascination deepened over the years as I saw the transformative power of photography on my clients’ self-perception and confidence.
Bodyssey was born from a desire to celebrate every body and provide a space where people could see themselves as works of art. The mission of Bodyssey is to empower individuals by capturing their essence through stunning photography, helping them recognize and embrace their uniqueness. Every photoshoot is more than just a session; it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. My purpose is to guide my clients through this journey, showing them as the masterpieces they truly are.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At Bodyssey, we specialize in creating empowering photography experiences that celebrate the unique beauty of each individual. Our studio, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen, is a sanctuary where clients can explore their confidence and express themselves through art.
What sets Bodyssey apart is our commitment to making every client feel comfortable and celebrated. From the moment they book a session to the final reveal of their photos, we provide personalized guidance and support. Our process includes a consultation call to understand their vision and a meticulously planned photoshoot guided by myself, ensuring they feel confident and radiant in every shot.
Recently, we’ve been expanding our offerings to include new package options and additional services like museum-quality prints and beautifully bound books. These additions allow our clients to take home tangible memories of their experience, transforming their photos into lasting works of art.
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, three key qualities have been instrumental in my journey,
1. Empathy and Understanding: Being able to connect with my clients on a personal level and understand their stories, fears, and aspirations has been crucial. This connection allows me to create a comfortable environment where they can truly express themselves.
To develop this, focus on active listening and genuine curiosity about others’ experiences. Practice empathy in everyday interactions.
2. Technical Expertise in Photography: Mastering the technical aspects of photography, including lighting, composition, and post-processing, has allowed me to consistently produce high-quality work that exceeds clients’ expectations.
Invest time in learning and practicing your craft. Take courses, seek feedback, and continually challenge yourself to improve.
3. Resilience and Adaptability: The journey of building Bodyssey has had its challenges, from navigating business logistics to adapting to clients’ diverse needs. Staying resilient and flexible has been key to overcoming obstacles and growing the business.
Embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Develop a positive mindset and be open to change and new approaches.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
Our ideal client is someone who is ready to embrace their uniqueness and embark on a journey of self-expression through art. They might be celebrating a milestone, seeking a confidence boost, or simply wanting to see themselves in a new light. Characteristics that make someone an ideal client include:
Desire for empowerment: Looking to celebrate and enhance their self-confidence through a unique and personalized experience.
Trust in the process: Comfortable with being guided through the photoshoot and open to our creative direction.
Open-mindedness: Willing to explore and express different facets of their personality.
At Bodyssey, we believe that every individual has a story worth telling and a beauty worth celebrating. Our clients are those who are ready to see themselves as the true works of art they are.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bodyssey.studio/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialbodyssey
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBodyssey
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bodyssey
- Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MHxNwJDWLeh3cZe66
Image Credits
Photo credit Bodyssey 2024
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
