Today we’d like to introduce you to Christia Yovida Burton.
Christia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Growing up, my mom loved taking pictures of us. She made sure each one of her three kids have their own albums. I remember, I would get in trouble for using the camera my mom has to take pictures of my brothers, my dolls, my pets, everything. You know, film refills are expensive back in the day, we didn’t have digitals back then. Anyways, finally, my parents gave in and bought me my own camera in high school. It was a point and shoot but, I was happy. I loved editing photos too on Adobe Photoshop. I would take pictures of my friends, family, myself, etc. I remember I wanted a graduation photo but my parents wouldn’t buy any of the photos because they were expensive! (which totally worth it, in my opinion to buy those). So, with not being able to buy the photos, I decided to take photos of myself with my awesome 5.0 megapixel point and shoot camera in the bathroom. YES! The bathroom!! haha! I had a navy-blue shower curtain in my bathroom so, it looks decent enough to look like a studio. I actually have the photo I took on my desk.
After high school, I started working in a restaurant. I saved enough money to get my own professional camera one day. I started with taking pictures of family, friends, and especially my daughter. Soon, more and more friends and family asked for me to take their photos.
In 2011, Addie Photography was founded. I started my career as Newborn Photographer, but that does not mean that my Photography service is limited. I have been hired to photograph children of all ages, families, maternity, events, engagements and weddings. Basically, for any of your photography needs, give me a shot, and I promise to impress.
Other than photography, I spend my time with my husband and two children, a boy and a girl. My family is the center of my world. My husband, Bob, helps me and support me in every way towards this business. He is also very involved in the business. He is my customer service specialist and a 2nd shooter.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I would say that somewhat it has been a smooth road. The only struggle I have come to is to prevent myself from buying more and more props for my clients to use and that’s not really a struggle, is it?
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Addie Photography – what should we know?
I started Addie Photography specializing in Newborn photography. I am known for being patient with babies and children. One parent told me that I’m a baby whisperer because they couldn’t get the baby to sleep and she slept when I held her. I am also always gentle with my little clients.
Since Addie Photography opened, I have done many maternity, family, engagement and weddings too! My husband, Bob, has joined me. So now, we do not specialize in Newborn anymore. We can do any photography needs that clients need!
One of the many things that set Addie Photography apart from others is that we offer an at home online proofing. Clients, do not need to come in to the studio one week or two weeks after the session to pick their photos. They would receive a password-protected online album for three weeks and they are able to pick and purchase their photos in the comfort of their own home. They can be in pajamas or be at grandparents’ home to view their image.
Since we have opened for quite a while as a business, we have many portfolios to view. We are very experienced and are not scared to try new things. Every year, I would go to photographer’s conferences to gain more knowledge and to expand my skills in being a photographer.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Well, my husband, Bob, played a big role in being very supportive and loving. Both my children, Natasha and Austin, they are usually my lab rat for trying new things. They are a good sport though! Most photographers have children that have “Photographer child syndrome” where the kids just HATE when their photographer mom takes their photos, my kids haven’t shown that sign yet.
I would thank all of my friends and family for letting me take their photos when I first started shooting with my professional camera. I thank them for their support and putting their trust in me to capture their moments. If I didn’t have these people, I would not be here today.
I thank my parents for their love and support all these years. I thank them for letting me use their film camera back then. I thank them for buying me my first digital point and shoot camera and to always say my work is beautiful and great.
Pricing:
- Portrait Sessions starts at $199
- Newborn and Maternity Sessions starts at $299
- Weddings/Events starts at $1499
Contact Info:
- Address: Suwanee, GA
- Website: www.addiephotos.com
- Phone: 6789080677
- Email: christia@addiephotos.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/addiephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/addiephotography/
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