Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsey Murphy.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chelsey. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up, I usually had a camera close by. Photos are important in my family. I was mainly influenced by my parents, who were always taking photos of us kids and whatever shenanigans we were up to. I always found taking pictures fun. I also loved the fact that I could hold a memory in my hand. I didn’t take this hobby seriously until college when I switched my focus from dietetics & exercise science to fine art. I would do shoots for friends and family to gain the experience I needed and to build a portfolio in order to start booking clients. I worked at a studio for a couple of years, shooting mostly kids and families, and then started my own business right as I graduated from college. I wanted to get into the wedding industry, so I started second shooting to learn the ropes. I still remember how I felt at the first wedding I booked through my own business, I was so wired that whole day. I think I’ll always have a bit of nerves before shooting, but now they’re quickly replaced by what I like to call “photographer’s high.”
Anyone who has started their own business knows how much passion and focus it takes to succeed. It also helps to love what you do! School was definitely helpful and I think that my fine art background helps set my images apart. All the studio work I did taught me to work quickly and be patient with children. I’ve been lucky enough to use past work experiences or connections to benefit my business in some way. It could be as easy as doing a useful trade with someone or simply gaining referrals through coworkers. Making connections, identifying good opportunities, and continuous education are some of the most important things I do to move myself forward.
Has it been a smooth road?
I don’t know anyone who has had a smooth road building their own business from scratch. There will always be setbacks and disappointments, but those experiences are helpful when viewed as learning opportunities. Those low points show you what you need to know about yourself and your business, and how to make things better. If you think you know everything, you’re in trouble. There’s always room for improvement and growth and you need to be constantly learning.
We’d love to hear more about Rise Images.
I love photography in general, I could be taking pictures of anything, it just makes me happy. Landscapes, boudoir, whatever. I’m currently focused in on families, engagements, and weddings. These three specifically give me a spark of happiness, but I’m not locked into these categories.
The main goal for me is to give my clients a comfortable, stress-free and fun experience that they will look back on as a happy memory. I like my clients to know that I value them, and their priorities and opinions matter, and it’s not all about what I want. It seems like a lot of photographers are stuck in this mindset that it’s all about them and their portfolio and fitting something seamlessly into their Instagram squares. If my client doesn’t want to drive to the perfect location I have picked out at the exact time when golden hour is, that’s fine. I’ll educate them on the pros and cons, but ultimately, it’s their decision and I’ll respect that. If my wedding couple doesn’t want to take portraits for the full 45 minutes we have scheduled because they would rather get to the reception to hang out with their friends and family, it’s not going to hurt my feelings. It’s their day and they’re going to do what they want in order to enjoy it. I’m proud that I’m able to cultivate a trustworthy, comfortable relationship with my clients, while still giving them the artistic, emotive photos they’re looking for.
Something that drives me is capturing connections between people. Getting real emotions out of my subjects is so important to me. The more I can get them to connect authentically, the better the photos turn out. I love seeing people genuinely having a good time and celebrating their love and their family.
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
In general, I think women are still seen as timid creatures and not as figures of authority. On the other hand, if we are assertive and authoritative, we can be seen as bossy. I think that view on women can be a barrier to leadership in any industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.riseimagesart.com
- Email: riseimagesart@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/riseimagesart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/riseimages
Image Credit:
Rise Images
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