Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelby Steckbauer.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Growing up as a young girl with severe dyslexia, who was painfully shy and struggled in school, to a now 25 year old business owner. Never in a million years would I envision my life where it is today. When ShelbyRae Photographs was born, I was at a low-point in my life. I was struggling to find direction and purpose and just starting college. I had suffered from so much self-doubt, for so many years, because of dyslexia. When I started taking photographs of people I realized that I had a talent for it and it was something I was passionate about. Growing up, we’re told if you can find a job that you’re passionate about, you’ll never work a day in your life. And that is truly how I feel about photography. The look on my clients faces when they look at their photos for the first time brings me such joy. It is what drives me to continue. From my warm, authentic, raw moments I capture, I think that is what truly makes me unique in this industry.
Starting a business and moving at age 22 to the south with my golden doodle, to chase my dreams has made me push past my limiting beliefs and fears. Taking the leap of faith and moving away from friends and family, all the things that I knew, and going from a small town in Wisconsin to the big city of Atlanta was really scary! But I knew I needed to make the change in order to pursue my dreams. It truly is remarkable what we can push ourselves to do with confidence and love and support from friends & family.
I love documenting everything. I don’t have a specific nitch besides some people say I am the “Doodle Photographer” of Atlanta haha. In December a group of 7 doodle moms and I started taking pictures together and making them very elaborate with props and our pups (ThatDoodSquad). It has turned into something bigger than we ever imaged!
Please tell us about your art.
I am a wedding, lifestyle, fashion & doodle photographer!
It is an amazing feeling knowing my clients will walk away from their sessions having memories that will last them a lifetime and can look back on their images years from now.
I love capturing real, raw, authentic emotion out of my clients.
Here is a short video on me —- http://www.shelbyraephotographs.com/atlanta-photographer-about-me/
We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
It absolutely can be! I think I talk to my golden doodle way too much during the day! Hehe.
Getting active in the creative community will help a lot! ATL Girl Gang! Tuesdays Together! Networking Events!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Social Media!
IG: @ShelbyRae Photographs
IG: @MissLola The Goldendoodle
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShelbyRaePhotographs/
Website: http://www.shelbyraephotographs.com/
Blog: http://www.shelbyraephotographs.com/blog/
Contact Info:
- Address: 1709 Liberty Parkway NW
Atlanta GA 30318 - Website: www.shelbyraephotographs.com
- Phone: 7153703177
- Email: hello@shelbyraephotographs.com
- Instagram: ShelbyRae Photographs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShelbyRaePhotographs/
- Other: www.shelbyraephotographs.com
Image Credit:
All photographed by me
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
