We were lucky to catch up with Valerie Cook recently and have shared our conversation below.
Valerie , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I grew up watching my dad bust his butt. He opened his own transmission shop shortly after I was born. I grew up watching him work hard to provide for his family. He worked long days and missed a lot of events; but we were never without the necessities of life. Dad gave me the job of doing inventory when I was old enough to follow a spreadsheet and record accurate counts. That was my job every year. Watching my dad run his business really instilled a great work ethic into me. He was very honest with his customers and treated them all the same, regardless of their financial status.
When I was an Army wife on a base in Germany in 1995, I met someone from my home area. Turns out his parents took their car to my dad for repairs. He remembered how highly his parents spoke of my dad’s honesty and great work. That really made it sink in.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I love capturing events and telling people’s stories. I use my camera and photographic skills to document and enhance their special moments. I capture weddings, elopements, families, seniors, newborns, events, and pretty much anything.
At Magic Wand Photography, we believe that everyone deserves to have beautiful, professional photos that they can cherish for years to come…regardless of their income bracket. That’s why we offer a range of packages to fit every budget, so you can get the perfect photos without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for a photographer for your wedding day or a family portrait session, we’ve got you covered. Our team of experienced photographers knows how to capture the perfect shot, and we’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure that you get the photos you’ve always dreamed of.
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?
I think some of the most important skills someone in my industry needs are being able to relate to people, understanding people, and being flexible.
You have to love people be able to work with them successfully. Building a rapport with my clients is one of my favorite things to do. I love getting to know them and their story. Documenting that story is very rewarding to me.
Flexibility is absolute a must in the photography world. Things change. You have to be flexible and adjust to any situation that pops up.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always looking for individuals to collaborate with. I love working with people that have “alternative” lifestyles or choices. I would love to enhance my network of models, regardless of their gender identity. I am an all inclusive photographer that does not make assumptions or judgements.
If anyone wants to collaborate, they are welcome to fill out the Contact Us form on my website (www.magicwandcreations.com) or email me at [email protected].
Contact Info:
- Website: www.magicwandcreations.com
- Instagram: @magicwandcreations
- Facebook: @magicwandcreations2016
