The way ahead looked murky. It was 2008, and I had just officially started my photography business. It seems like only yesterday that I bought my first second-hand camera, naive and uncertain about what I truly wanted in life. The only certainty I had was that I wanted to take beautiful images and that I wanted my life to make a difference in other people’s lives.
Somehow, I stumbled into the world of weddings, and that journey took me to beautiful locations all over the world across different continents, including amazing journeys in Bangladesh, Turkey, and Holland. I ended up capturing so many memories that remain as fresh in my mind as they are in my clients minds. I saw these couples grow into small families and their relationships strengthen, and I continued the journey alongside them through the years. Why am I sharing this story with you?
You see, the 15-year anniversary of Stories had a humble beginning. It started with a small dream. A little girl who was terrified but made a decision to be brave and step out of her comfort zone. Despite her insecurities and weaknesses, she decided that nothing would be too hard if God was by her side.
That girl 15 years ago would never have imagined owning a studio and working with eight other talented creatives on meaningful and purposeful projects. She would never have imagined that she had the capacity to hire people, inspire them to chase after their own dreams, and create life-changing work.
But she did. That little girl is me.
Success to me isn’t just about the numbers on an Excel sheet; it’s also about how many lives I’ve impacted. To the people I have photographed, I am a legacy builder. I help connect people to an experience with their loved ones that they will remember forever.
To the people I have hired, I am a dream-maker. So many of the people who have worked with me over the years did not start out skilled. They were like me—someone with a dream. I am so blessed that I have been able to be part of their story too.
What about you? Do you have a dream too? What would it take for you to be brave and step out?
You have one life. Why not spend it doing what inspires you, grows you and has an impact on the world around you?
