We’re looking forward to introducing you to Amanda Helmick. Check out our conversation below.
Amanda, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
One thing I’m most proud of building – that no one really sees – is the connection between my couples. As a non-traditional wedding and elopement photographer, my couples often have trouble finding inspiration of celebrations that actually connect with them. Being a resource in sharing the days I get to document – and the team of people that made it happen – has inspired other couples I’ve worked with to buy that dream dress online (because standard bridal shops just don’t have those non-traditional attire options!) The community and connection they get from interacting with each other, and being that common thread for them, is super rewarding.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hey, hi, hello! I’m Amanda (she/her) and I’m the owner and photographer at Amanda Matilda Photography. I help offbeat couples capture the story and scenery of their non-traditional wedding days – from elopements to micro weddings, to larger celebrations in costume for Halloween! If it’s unique and true to the couple, I’m there. I’ve been at this for 13 years now, and love being a safe place for these unique celebrations.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I really believe that life is all about connections and stories. When we fail to see all that connects us together, we lose the bonds between us. Restoring those connections comes from sharing our stories with one another. Being vulnerable. Realizing we have more in common than what divides us. I love getting to share even small parts of peoples’ stories, and giving them a way to hold on to and share those memories with others.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
My fear of rejection got the best of me for most of my upbringing. I would hide my real self away, being a surface level “self” for others so that no one would be off-put by my real thoughts, opinions, humor, etc. When I gradually stopped caring as much what others thought and leaned into my own “weirdness” my business soared. People connected to my individuality, saw themselves in me, and I began to build a circle of similar people who trusted – and LIKED – me for me! Leaning into what makes you unique is often what sets you up for success, and stands you out from the crowd. Get weird!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think even smart people tend to get locked into doing things within the current system, or making changes within the way things have always been done. I believe the best things come when we ditch the whole system and let our brains think outside the box. Don’t imagine how you can change wedding traditions or decide on a whimsical dessert bar instead of a wedding cake. Get bigger – imagine what your best way to spend a day looks like, and build a wedding ceremony into that! Ditching the way things have always been done entirely frees you up to create something so meaningful and true to you.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I feel like I understand so deeply the fragility and shortness of life. That these little moments end up being the biggest things you look back on. So often I hear from clients that a loved one passed and I was the last person to take their photo professionally. I tear up taking photos of grandparents hugging the brides/grooms, or during toasts and first dances, knowing that those images will be what they look back on in 5, 10, 25 years, wishing desperately to go back to that night just one more time. Every photographer talks about capturing the moments, but I don’t think most people understand how deeply I mean and value the chance to do that for my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://amandamatildaphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandamatildaphotos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandamatildaphotography/
