Rachel Linkwald shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Rachel, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
Both! In my “previous life,” I acted professionally, and filled my gaps with photography. As my life and goals evolved, I shifted all my energies into my photography businesses. I told myself I certainly didn’t have the capacity to do both. Ah, limiting beliefs…
Last year, a performing arts company was expanding from Los Angeles to Atlanta, and the owner approached me and coaxed me into taking on their production. It was crazy being back in the theatre world, and crazier juggling both jobs. I learned a lot, and for this coming year have redefined my goals, and how to keep my sanity while engaging with both passions. I never expected this, but sometimes saying “yes” takes you to the next phase of the journey.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an Atlanta native, lover of the arts and my community, and an enthusiastic mother, wife, and home cook.
I have two different photography brands.
My family photography company is unique in that it focuses on elevating the selected images to art in photoshop, and designing, printing, and installing the finished gallery.
I also have a commercial brand, and love connecting with my clients over what they do, and helping them with imagery that sells their brand.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I believed you couldn’t make a living in the arts.
I’m glad I proved myself wrong.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Give yourself space to grow and explore. Everyone will ask what you want to be when you grow up. But stop looking for a vocation, and start looking for a passion. Let it blossom. Give it space to become a career. And then give yourself space to have a second career. And maybe a third. You don’t need to box yourself in to the answer that’s demanded of you as a child or young adult.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Oh for sure. I like people, and I don’t like pretense. I don’t believe I will be liked based on buying into any of the superficialities of the world. I believe I will only connect with others authentically. Giving yourself permission to be real gives others permission as well. That’s some of the magic that happens in my sessions. Helping others drop their guard, and present themselves as their true selves. It makes our time together truly fun, and by being me, I help show others the real you.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Let’s assume I’ve accrued enough savings to last those 10 years, and perhaps pass some forward, shall we? Yes, my work is my passion, and I’m so grateful that the Arts helps pay my bills. So while I can’t imagine I would stop creating, I would stop the constant hustle. Create and be present with my family and community and for myself. That’s why I’m here. I’m pleased that as a freelancer, I’m already able to prioritize both. But I wouldn’t do anything that was strictly for sake of the bills.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shaynaimage.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachel_shayna_image/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-linkwald-shaynaimage/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaynaImage/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shayna-image-atlanta
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH6ML17WQEfNhyrIjUYBqEA
- Other: www.rachellinkwald.com (commercial site)
Image Credits
All images by Rachel Linkwald/Shayna Image
