How did you come to recognize the service you provide as a passion?
My camera feels like an extension of me; it is part of me. I have always loved to capture what I see as Art, even as a child. The passion has always been there, and from that passion, it has become a service to others. I believe that others feel my passion and that is what drives them to commission me to capture their memories for them, memories to cherish for a lifetime. I always tell my clients as I am working with them that I look beyond the here and now with every image. I strive to create a work of art that is a lasting memory to pass from generation to generation. I always say, "think of how special this will one day be to your great great grandchildren". My clients appreciate that personal attention and genuine care that I give to them.
What steps have you taken to get to where you are today with the service you provide?
? I have 10 years of experience in the Professional Photography field; however, I have enjoyed shooting as an amateur all of my life. I worked for 8 years for another Studio before making the decision to open my own Studio. I have never regretted my decision. I am constantly researching new trends and attending seminars to be sure that I am always in the know with the latest trends and techniques. I manage a website and a blog where my clients and prospective clients can interact as well as a fan page in the social media world of Face Book. I connect with every client to form a lasting friendship; by doing this, my clients are always at ease with me, making it fun for them. I set up vendor booths at events to share my work and what I have to offer. In addition, I really believe in giving back to your community. I have made many charitable donations to fund raisers of all kinds as well as supporting several causes in the Cedar Valley. I believe that in order to be successful, one must give of themselves to help others.
What do you consider the secret to your success? Your greatest lesson learned?
I am a very positive and upbeat person, my enthusiasm is infectious to others and that is truly what I believe has brought me the success that I enjoy today. That, and of course the talent to capture art with memories. My greatest lesson learned or that I could share is that if you treat others with respect and offer kindness, the rest will follow with ease.
Where do you see God in the service you provide?
God is a big part of my life both personally and in business. I believe that He answers all prayers and is in complete control of my life and my successes and failures. He has definitely given me a gift!
What is the most rewarding part of what you do? The most challenging?
The most rewarding part of what I do is when I have a client who cries happy and emotional tears when they see their memories captured in my art. It humbles me and makes me truly grateful for this gift that God has given me. The most challenging thing for me is, well, I love what I do so much that I tend to work some very long hours without ever realizing it. I am working on finding a nice balance between work and family since I work from my home.
from there life will be good."
~Christine
What is the best advice you have ever received?
To treat others with respect and dignity, from there life will be good.
If you could send one message to the readers, what would it be?
Follow your dreams and your passions, life is what we make of it and we can do anything we set our minds to. Success comes in many forms; always trust that God knows what is best for you therefore everything happens for a reason. It is a wise soul who learns from it and uses it to better themselves.