We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Samantha Boesse-Dupuis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Samantha, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My photography journey began in my teenage years, when I developed a passion for capturing portraits, nature, and landscapes—anything that caught my eye. The summer before my senior year of high school, I realized photography could be more than a hobby; it could be a career. That realization set me on a focused path. I began researching photography schools and ultimately enrolled at the Hallmark Institute of Photography in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. I completed the intensive 10-month program and graduated in 2015 with a Professional Photographer’s Certificate, and I haven’t stopped pursuing this dream since.
Capturing memories that families can cherish forever means so much to me. I grew up without family photos, and now that my parents are no longer here, I often wish I had those moments to look back on. That’s why this work is deeply personal to me. When I get to freeze time, capture genuine, candid moments, and deliver more than my clients expect — that’s when I know I’m truly living out my purpose.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I named my business after my daughter, Grace. She’s been a constant source of motivation in my life, and it felt only right to have her name represent the heart behind my work.
One of the things I’m known for in my photography business is the patience and care I bring to every session. I take my time with each client—especially families with children—to ensure everyone feels comfortable and relaxed. I come prepared with poses and creative ideas, but I’m always open to client inspiration. When a client shares an idea and I’m able to bring it to life—even better than they imagined—it’s incredibly rewarding.
Outside of photography, I’m also very active in my community through my full-time role as the Hospitality Coordinator at Chick-fil-A Mount Dora. This position has allowed me to build strong, meaningful connections with local families and organizations. Over the last three years, I’ve had the opportunity to plug into the community and partner with an organization that offered affordable family photos to local families. Not only did this help me connect with a brand-new community after moving from Colorado, but it also opened the door to incredible friendships and continued growth for my business. I’m forever grateful for that opportunity and the amazing people I’ve met along the way.
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?
Connection — Building genuine relationships has been at the heart of everything I do. Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about making people feel seen, comfortable, and cared for. For anyone starting out, focus on connecting with people. It’s not just about the transaction — it’s about the relationship. Every family I meet becomes part of my story, and I’m grateful for the connections that go far beyond the camera.
Perseverance — There have been seasons when things felt uncertain, but staying faithful and trusting the process has kept me going. Growth takes time, and every session — good or challenging — teaches you something valuable. Keep showing up, even when it’s hard.
Service – Viewing photography as a way to serve others — not just a business — creates lasting impact. It’s about giving families something meaningful they can treasure forever.
For those early in their journey — be patient with yourself, stay true to your “why,” stay consistent, and let your heart guide your work. When your passion meets purpose, everything else falls into place.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents ever did for me was support me through every step of my journey. We struggled financially growing up, but my mom did everything she could to buy me my first big camera around 2012 or 2013. I still remember the joy on her face when I opened it on Christmas morning, and the love I felt in that moment.
From that day on, I took that camera everywhere. My dad would drive me to every single photoshoot and patiently wait for me until I was done. When it came time for college, they fully supported my decision to attend a photography-focused school instead of taking a more traditional route.
They always made sure I knew how proud they were of me — and that constant love and encouragement is something I’ll carry with me forever.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://graceandcophotos.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceandcophotos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceandcophotos
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