Life and Work with Dawn Mcclannan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Mcclannan.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been an artist/creative person my whole life. I paint, sing, and I’ve done community theatre (love it all) But when I started doing wedding photography, I truly found my niche in life.

 I love being a wedding photographer, it’s one of the most rewarding+fun jobs I’ve ever had. I’ve been a full-time wedding photographer for the past four years, and I’ve shot over 50 weddings. In that time, I’ve learned so much, I’ve been mentored, attended photography workshops, changed my work ethic+editing aesthetics many times and I’ve gained a ton of insights, tips and tricks.

 I love weddings and I love to travel so the last couple of years I’ve been doing more destination weddings and elopements. They are so unique to the couple and I love seeing their personality come out in how they plan their day and how they say their vows, it’s always beautiful and moves me every time.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Fear of failure can be so paralyzing, I’ve had to learn how to take risk. I often say to myself “What would I do if I weren’t afraid of making a mistake, feeling rejected, or looking foolish” It’s this mantra that keeps me going and keeping myself open to what’s next.

 But life also needs to be balanced, remember to take time off, which is just as important as working hard. Truly learning to live in the moment, to appreciate the things around me. Life’s about the little things, slowing down to experience the fullness of what’s happening around me.

Please tell us about Dawn McClannan Photography.
I specialize in wedding photography with an emphasis on destination weddings and elopements. I’ve always had a love for traveling and opening my business up to destination weddings and elopements has allowed me to combine my two loves.

 I’m all about capturing moments and freezing them in time. Those real and raw emotions that happen throughout the day, the ones that make you feel as you look back on them. I love having a real connection with my couples, I’m not just someone they hire for the day but we become friends. We’re like-minded and we truly love hanging out together. I’m there to be your friend, your planner, your biggest cheerleader. I am a person who brings calmness to a potentially stressful day, to remind you to breathe and simply be present with each other.

What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
Don’t be afraid to invest in workshops and educational resources, you’ll learn a ton. And your equipment matters. Realize your potential, have confidence in yourself and don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone-say yes to new opportunities.

 If you want to travel in your business, you need to travel in life. It matters to potential clients if they know you have experience traveling to areas they’re considering for their wedding or elopement.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.dmacphoto.net
• Instagram: instagram.com/dawn_macphoto
• Facebook: https://business.facebook.com/dawnmcclannanphoto/

Image Credit:
Dawn McClannan Photography

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