Meet Trailblazer Rachel Beckwith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Beckwith.

Rachel, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
It’s been a process. I’ve never had the luxury of building a business without any other time restraints. Many business owners can relate to! I didn’t quit my full-time job until I was a mom, so the bulk of my growth and development happened in this new life stage where I had little time and little sleep. Not ideal for the amount of time and energy it takes to get a business started, but even if I could go back and change it, I wouldn’t. Motherhood has changed me in ways I never expected. It’s strengthened me and given me the confidence to be true to myself. It’s grounded me in what matters most, which I’ve carried into many facets of how I shoot and work with couples and families. Having a limited time has really given me the focus I needed to narrow down what I offer.

I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors and obsessed with mountain activities, so it was natural for me to connect with couples who wanted a little adventure on their wedding day. Whether they are eloping or having a large wedding. It’s very important to me to make it about the experience and for their day to not feel like a photo shoot, Not only for weddings but for all of my sessions. I often plan the shoot around an actual activity they enjoy so when they get their images, they connect with the emotion of the memories they made. I think this “experience focused” approach came to me through photographing my own kids. My favorite images of them are when they are doing something they love, like playing with sticks or climbing in the hammock. I’m constantly learning from them and applying it to life and business.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would say my biggest struggle was self-doubt. When I first started photography full time, I had no idea how isolated I would feel without co-workers. It took me a long time to reach out to others in the industry and get connected in the community. I was so nervous they would think my work sucks or not view me a “real” photographer. That they’d see how I had no idea how to actually run a business. So much changed when I finally started connecting with other entrepreneurs. I realized that no one has it all figured out, which took a weight off my shoulders and allowed me to grow in my areas of weakness alongside others. I’ve developed friendships that offer so much support, encouragement, and advice. Community is key. Any business owner just starting their journey needs it.

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I consider myself a Colorado adventure photographer and guide for elopements, weddings, and families. I serve all levels of adventurers so don’t feel like you have to hike 14ers all the time if you want to work with me. A big part of my brand is about making authentic memories in wild places. My years of hiking and exploring Colorado have given me an extensive knowledge of unique locations that I use to help couples and families plan the adventure perfect for them. Whether you’re avid hikers or prefer the roadside views, I know Colorado terrain and tailor the experience to you. My goal is to create images tied to real memories and emotion. You don’t get that from just showing up and taking photos. As a guide, I come alongside couples and families to craft an actual experience that allows them to truly be themselves doing something they enjoy.

Something I noticed in the photography industry was a lack of options for outdoorsy families who want this type of experiences captured. As an adventurous mom, this bummed me out. I know which images of my children mean the most to me, and it’s not ones where they are wearing fancy clothes being forced to pose for a picture. As far as family photography goes, I’m really excited to offer something different. A natural and documented experience that your family can actually enjoy. Think: hiking, camping, or paddle boarding We are creating real memories that foster a sense of wonder for nature and allows your family to have fun in the wild.

Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
Building a Story brand by Donald Miller has been a huge help in my business and clarifying my message. I’m currently reading How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie which has been fascinating to better understand human motives and how we think.

Yoga and hiking really help to clear the mind and get my heart in a place of gratitude.

Pricing:

• Weddings start at $3,500
• Elopements start at $2,500
• Adventure Sessions (for couples or families) start at $550

Contact Info:

• Website: rachelbeckwith.com
• Phone: 7192371108
• Email: hello@rachelbeckwith.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachbeckwithphoto/

Image Credit:
Rachel Beckwith Photography

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