Meet Whitney Stanfield

We recently connected with Whitney Stanfield and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Whitney , thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

I struggled with imposter syndrome for years. I started photography in 2018 as a creative outlet after having my first baby. I began taking photos for friends and family, never really realizing how meaningful those images truly were to them. Eventually, I started taking paid sessions by referral-only, while balancing life with little ones at home.

When I was laid off from my part-time job 3 weeks after welcoming my third baby, photography became more than a creative outlet- it became something I wanted to grow. I still struggled to call myself a “photographer.” I didn’t have formal training or years of experience. I wasn’t that girl that grew up with the dream of being a photographer one day. But there’s one thing that I did have- a deep passion and countless hours of learning on my own.

But one day it clicked… my clients were introducing me as their photographer. They believed in me before I fully believed in myself. That’s when I realized I’d earned the title- not through a degree, but through dedication, education, and the connections I built with each couple and family that has been in front of my camera.

Over the years, I have learned that growth and imperfection can coexist. I may not have it all figured out (who does?), but I know my work matters- to my clients, to their families, to my family and to me. I overcame imposter syndrome by finally seeing myself the way others already did.

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?

I’m Whitney! I’m the girl behind the camera and owner of Whitney Rena Photography LLC. I love capturing it all- seniors, couples, maternity, newborns and families- but my heart truly belongs to photographing children and families. There is nothing better than capturing genuine connection and all of those sweet in-between moments that create lasting memories. I like to lead with a warm approach, while prompting and posing with intention. My goal is for sessions with me to feel very go-with-the-flow- like you’re just hanging out with a friend who happens to have a camera. And if you have little ones, there’s a good chance I’ll be buddies with them by the end of it!

The most special thing about it for me is the connection I get to build with each family. It’s more than just taking photos- it’s about creating an experience where people can slow down, be present with the ones they love, and walk away with beautiful images that truly reflect who they are together. Seeing those photos printed and hung on walls in their homes, knowing I’ve photographed a fleeting season of life, is incredibly meaningful.

Over the past few years, my business has grown from a creative outlet into something I’m deeply proud of. In 2026, I’m focused on elevating the client experience- from communication and styling guidance to beautifully curated final galleries. I’m also especially excited to be expanding my knowledge in newborn photography. I’m currently completing an in-depth course covering all there is to know about studio newborn sessions- from posing and lighting to safety and styling. I can’t wait to bring that new level of expertise and creativity into my sessions and continue offering families timeless, heartfelt images they’ll treasure for years to come!

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, three main qualities that have been a theme in my photography journey from the beginning and until now are perseverance, connection, and an eagerness to learn.

From struggling with imposter syndrome to finding my passion, there have been times where I have found myself thinking about how easy it would be to tuck my camera away and never pick it up again. Perseverance really helped me through seasons of comparison and self doubt. I’ve learned that growth never happens overnight- building something meaningful takes time and heart. Some advice: don’t throw in the towel if it means something to you. Keep showing up even when you’re unsure!

Connection has been at the heart of what I do since day 1. Building relationships with my clients and creating experiences that feel genuine has not only helped my business grow, but it’s made my work so incredibly fulfilling.

Finally, an eagerness to learn has shaped everything for me. I didn’t go to school for photography, but I built my skills through curiosity, every free resource I could get my hands on, and SO much trial and error. I think it’s incredibly important to become comfortable with the uncomfortable, and that where there is no failure- there can be no growth. I’m constantly seeking to learn more about photography, and that has greatly grown my confidence behind the camera. I’ve officially said goodbye to the imposter syndrome and started proudly wearing the title of photographer!

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

I definitely see some maternity and newborn model calls in the near future! If you’re an expecting mama in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area due in 2026 and interested in a maternity, Fresh 48, or newborn session (in-home lifestyle or studio)- I’d love to chat. I’ll be offering a limited number of sessions at a discounted rate as I continue building my portfolio and expanding my expertise in this sweet season of life.

You can reach me by email at [email protected] or find me on Facebook and Instagram by searching for Whitney Rena Photography LLC. I would love to connect!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Whitney Rena Photography LLC

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