Hidden Gems: Meet Tiffany Gill of 224 Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Gill.

Hi Tiffany, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I owned my first camera in 2004, which I still have; it was a Kodak Easyshare. I would mostly take pictures at sports events and family events. At this time, the art of photography wasn’t on my mind. I just enjoyed taking my camera with me and snapping pictures. My passion and love for the art of photography didn’t pique my interest until I had my daughter in 2009. I was always taking pictures of her on my phone. I would find myself trying to take pictures from different angles and closeups of her little eyes.

I began to watch photography videos on YouTube, and I would read a lot of photography forums. I stayed up many nights studying and soaking up all the knowledge I could attain. Eight months in, my camera phone wasn’t making the cut anymore, and I was gifted for Mother’s Day with my first DSLR, a Nikon D3000. I quickly put what I learned to use, and I reached out to a photographer that allowed me to shadow her at a maternity session. This day I knew for sure that I wanted to become a photographer. Over the years, I slowly grew my business, and two years ago, I finally decided to step out on faith and open my own studio. I only had $2,000.00 and a vision. Against the advice of friends, I opened my studio in my hometown, Fairfax, SC. The poorest County in the State of South Carolina. I am still open for business, and I’m making more money than I’ve every made on anyone’s 9-5. God’s favor on my business has been truly mind-blowing. I am beyond grateful to be able to operate in my purpose daily. My studio has been so much more to my clients than just a photography studio. It has been an outlet for Mother’s who just need someone to listen, it has been a safe haven for some that need to feel safe, and it has been a place of uplifting for those that don’t always feel at their best. I think I have found my place in life for this season, and I’m just happy to do my part.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been a smooth road. I have had financial troubles and industry disappointments. Photography is an expensive craft. Camera, lenses, computers, lighting, editing software, mentorship, and the list goes on. This is definitely a business where it takes money to make money. It’s very possible to make it a business without money, but nevertheless difficult. I didn’t have thousands of dollars to spend on equipment so I used what I had until I can get what I needed. This way just takes more time. Another struggle for me was feeling let down by other photographers in the industry. I would reach out to other photographers that I admired for advice or just general questions. A lot of photographers were not willing to share information, and some were right out rude. I was very discouraged and often times I wanted to quit. Actually, there have been two occasions where I did not touch my camera for months because I was made to feel unworthy; however, over time, I have learned that everyone has had a road to travel and there’s may not have been easy either. We all deserve grace, and I’ve learned to give myself more of it and it helps keep me grounded.

We’ve been impressed with 224 Photography, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
224 Photography is my 2nd oldest baby, my ministry, my passion! The 224 stands for- today, tomorrow, forever (2day, 2morrow, 4ever) I create memories for today, tomorrow, and forever. 224 Photography specializes in natural light and studio portrait photography. 224 Photography is known for creative sets for milestones and birthdays. My creative style and the quality of my images sets me apart from others. In July 2021, my brand will have been around for ten years, and I’m most proud that my brand still carries a great name for my clients. 224 Photography is driven for the satisfaction of my clients. I want to see clients have a great experience from beginning to end each time they conduct business with 224 Photography. 224 Photography offers portrait photography for maternity, infant milestones, cake smash, graduation, small families, and birthdays.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love that there’s always something new to enjoy, and I love how “we” African Americans show up in business! I totally dislike the traffic!

Contact Info:

• Email: info@224photography.com
• Website: www.224photography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/224photography/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/224photo