Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoie Southern Garrett.
Hi Zoie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I got started in photography as a child, really. As long as I can remember, I have had a camera in my hands. Just ask all my middle school friends who I would force to model for me.
My greatest memories are going through the 10 suitcases of prints with my nanny every weekend. We would flip through, and she would keep each person’s memory alive with a story about them and who they were to us. That was so inspiring, even as a child, to have all these stories and memories of people I didn’t even know, or never got the chance to meet. I didn’t know it yet in any certain terms, but somewhere inside of me, something clung to the fact that I wanted to be able to give that gift to future generations as well. The gift of physical memories.
But, truly, it started as a hobby on weekends while working a normal 9-5 job. I would second shoot weddings for extra money and, every now and then, pick up family sessions for people I knew. I’ve always felt drawn to creative arts in some way, but it took me a minute to realize I could turn that hobby into a career.
After getting pregnant with our rainbow baby, Wade, my husband & I decided that I would stay home to focus on the health and wellness of both myself and the baby – but I also needed to scratch the itch of creativity, so I pulled out my very old camera and started offering free sessions in 2022. From there, it snowballed into something I can only attribute to a testament of how good God is. My calendar became fully booked, and I’ve met, mentored, and been mentored by some of the most amazing people. Im abundantly blessed with a wonderful clientele, an incredible community, and a passion for this industry. I pray that when people see my business, they see the passion, & that my heart and soul go into it, and they see a need being met. I truly believe photos are not just some trend but a legacy that will outlive you and your children – but keep your memories frozen in time so that we may all live on through those who flip through the prints one day.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road; photography is a very oversaturated and competitive industry. However, like with all art, it is subjective.
It’s challenging to build a clientele that not only respects your creative decisions but also values your work as a whole. It’s also a bumpy road to navigate when first starting because you almost have to be bad before you’re good, and for someone who is a perfectionist, that was not my favorite part.
It’s also been an ever-changing business. When I first started, you just had to shoot and be personable. Now you might as well get a social media marketing degree as well, because to stay relevant, you’ll need the knowledge. However, once I built a good clientele and figured out who I am as an artist and business owner, it has been relatively smooth sailing.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a North Georgia-based family photographer. I specialize in families, maternity, and newborn sessions. I would say I’m most known for creating a warm editing style and keeping moms’ heads from exploding during sessions. I love to work with families the most, and being able to give moms and dads those memories of their kids is truly priceless to me.
What matters most to you? Why?
God & Family. I know that’s probably stereotypical, but that is what matters most. A family that values God above all, and each other day in and day out. I would not be able to do what I do or love others well without lots of prayer and help from a loving husband and kids. I am incredibly thankful for that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zoiesoutherngarrettphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: @zo.garrettphotography
- Facebook: Zoie Southern Garrett Photography
Image Credits
Zoie Southern Garrett Photography
