Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Ingram.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My love for photography began when I had children. Watching them grow created a desire to freeze certain moments. Once my children started coming home with their school pictures I decided I needed a camera. Lifetouch, respectfully, was not my idea of a good picture. I bought a camera, taught myself how to use it and so began my journey with photography. That was 15 years ago. People often ask me how long I’ve been a photographer and I’ve always struggled to answer. The title seems subjective. I’ve been a photographer since 2010 and I’ve been a professional photographer since 2023. There are many details in-between those years but ultimately life and the belief I’d trade passion for worry once I made the leap kept me from pursuing professional photography. Thankfully, I traded passion for obsession. I have a studio in Loganville, GA and of course I travel often for on location shoots. My business continues to grow and I am grateful to have each and every client!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Owning a small business is a struggle! I say that with sarcasm, but truth be told it’s a rollercoaster. My biggest struggle is internal. I battle imposter syndrome-which means I compare my work to that of other photographers. Most of the time those thoughts are negative, but over time I’ve learned how to use comparison for growth and let go of negativity. It’s a work in progress. Staying relevant on social media or even staying consistent is also a struggle. While I realize the importance, posting is always furthest from my mind. I hope to one day find a way to stay on top of this!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
There are many types of photography; portrait, wedding, event, lifestyle, fine art, arial, newborn, black and white, etc. There are too many to list. I specialize in newborns, children, lifestyle, families, candid, conceptual, macro, and pets. I believe what sets me apart from others is not having my own style. My style is finding yours. My business is centered around creating an experience with my clients that allows me to bring their vision to life. I’ve found that most photographers have a distinct style either with color tones or editing. So far, I’ve tried to NOT create that distinction in my work. I have second guessed that many times, but ultimately I don’t want to produce the same type of image with each person. To me that would feel closed off. I want a current or prospective client to trust me and know I can create what they want. I am proud of that philosophy. As far as what I’m know for, I believe it would be my nature with people. Specifically children. Photography sessions can be uncertain. You never know what version of a person will show up. Those are the moments I look forward to because I know I can find beauty there. I think my clients appreciate that and value my gentle approach to chaos.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Yes! I am married with four children and three dogs!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.crystalingramphotography.com
- Instagram: crystal_ingram_photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalingramphotography23
Image Credits
All images taken by me: Crystal Ingram, Crystal Ingram Photography
