We recently connected with Heather Sears and have shared our conversation below.
Heather , we are so deeply grateful to you for opening up about your journey with mental health in the hops that it can help someone who might be going through something similar. Can you talk to us about your mental health journey and how you overcame or persisted despite any issues? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
A major challenge I have overcome involved navigating the loss of my husband and suddenly becoming the sole provider for my family of four young children. It was a time of intense difficulty that forced me to re-evaluate every aspect of my life.
I knew I couldn’t afford to be paralyzed by the grief, so I did everything in my power to get my own mental health in check. I chose to take my photography business, which had been part-time, and transition it to full-time. The result has been a thriving business that supports my children while also allowing me to meet their mental health needs. More importantly, this experience has made me realize how resilient I am and taught me how to perform effectively under the most extreme pressure. I gained a deep understanding of mental health awareness. I now approach every professional challenge with the conviction that if I can successfully manage that life-defining period, I can handle anything that arises in my life whether it be personal or professional. Now I tell the story of my husband as well as my own story to let other’s know they’re not alone in their mental health struggles.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
For 14 years, I’ve built an amazing business, but the most impactful decision came nearly two years ago when I made the significant investment to open my largest photography studio to date. This wasn’t just an expansion; it was a move that fundamentally elevated my business.
It has allowed me to curate multiple sets and dedicate specific areas for different types of sessions. This has helped my workflow, increased the volume of clients I can manage, and ultimately has driven a positive result on business. While I am proficient in all forms of photography, my true passion—and where I deliver my most exceptional work—is in Maternity, Newborn, and Boudoir sessions. These genres allow me to truly connect with clients during some of the most profound moments of their lives. I’ve found that when my personal passion aligns with my professional focus, the quality of my output and client satisfaction are at their absolute highest.
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?
Looking back, the three factors that have been most impactful in my professional journey are the cultivation of loyal client relationships, a deep and continuous understanding of lighting, and an unwavering eagerness to learn new skills.
To any new photographer, these are the skills that I believe will help you have a successful business.
People Skills: Develop strong communication, empathy, and active listening skills. Your ability to direct, reassure, and connect with clients is often as important as the quality of the final image.
Technical Mastery: Know your camera intimately. Shooting consistently and intentionally in manual mode is non-negotiable.
Post-Production: Learn how to edit skillfully to achieve your specific artistic vision, not just to correct mistakes.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
It happens. Sometimes personal life happens but I still have a business to run. Sometimes I feel like I’m pulled in a lot of directions. But self-care has been the best strategy for my life in all aspects. Some days I just need to take a day off and take care of myself whether that means getting a massage, a pedicure, a tattoo, hanging out with a friend, buying plants, or even just taking a nap. You can’t show up for others when you don’t show up for yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heathersearsphotography.com
- Instagram: @HeatherSearsPhotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatherSearsPhotography
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/heathersearsphotographyboudoir
Image Credits
Headshot credit goes to: Allix Cox
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
