Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittni Cain
Brittni, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved photography since I was a little girl, whether it was me taking the picture or a picture on a random wall of a cafe or library. My mom used to buy disposable cameras that you would have to wait and get developed (anyone else feel like it was 5 years before you got them back?). I would take pictures of anything and everything, especially if it had history behind it. In my younger years, we grew up in Virginia, so we were always at some type of historical monument or museum. I knew then that I would love to capture my own history one day, but then life started happening. I didn’t think I could actually make a real career out of it. Was I even good enough? Would anyone really want me to take their pictures? I had two kids, and the obsession with capturing every moment of their milestones was a MUST.
In 2020, I bought my first DSLR camera and took a handful of online classes at the college. I was addicted to camera education and wanted to learn everything I could. In November 2021, I decided enough was enough; I was good and I could get better! I wanted to fight my fear and prove to myself I could do it, and I did. I strive to learn new things with photography every chance I get.
I am a wife and mother of two. I have a son who is 10 and a daughter who is 4. They are currently my everyday unpaid models; my daughter loves it, and my son is in the “this isn’t cool, Mom” phase. On May 5, 2023, I lost my best friend, my incredible mother, and while I was going through all of our memories together, I realized my daughter only has one single image with her Nana. This was so sad yet eye-opening for me because pictures aren’t just pictures; they are literally frozen moments of our memories with the ones we love. Now, as a photographer, I am dedicated to capturing those special memories for others.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would love to say, yes, it has been smooth, but that would be lying. I have thought about throwing in the towel a few times. Some are insecurities of my own, and I wanted to give it all up when my mom passed. I couldn’t imagine taking pictures of others with their moms and loved ones after I lost mine. I thought it would hurt too much, but in reality, it was the opposite and has been so healing for me.
I also had to stop being the “yes” girl. Anyone who knows me knows that I rarely say no. I will go way out of my way to help and accommodate others, even if it is a huge inconvenience to myself. I wanted to do anything and everything just to build my client portfolio, but then I realized I could not run a business this way. I could not be successful or looked at seriously if I continued this way. I finally stood stronger, stuck to my contract, started saying no to inconveniences, etc. Not only did my clients and peers respect me more, but I respected myself more. I feel like that lesson made me stronger and a better overall photographer and business owner.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a natural light and lifestyle photographer living in Gainesville, GA, but serving all of the North Georgia surrounding area. I specialize in families, maternity, and newborns, but I dip my toes into weddings here and there. I also offer mini, senior, and engagement/couple sessions. I firmly believe that taking photos should be fun.
My sessions are opportunities to dress up and goof off with your loved ones. I am grateful for the opportunity to be invited into the lives of so many unique families. I mix a little posing with a lot of fun to get genuine smiles and those sweet laughter candids. I will play with your kids, and I will hype you up for your entire session while still remaining professional and delivering images you will absolutely adore.
What sets me apart is that I am not just a photographer; we will be friends by the end of it. Nervous for your session? I walk my clients through every moment, including but not limited to: posing, styling, location selection, wild babies, grumpy spouses, and more. I promise, by the end, we will have all had the best time. I want to be a fun yet safe place for all of my clients, and I think that sets me apart. I strive for family in my brand, and even after our session, I will keep up with you, pray for you, and become your new biggest hype woman.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have had two major mentors in my career so far: Alyssa Hollis (@cultivatedphotoedu) and Krystal (@simplyvintage.photography). These two ladies have helped mold me into the photographer that I am. Alyssa offers incredible courses and 1:1 mentoring. Krystal offers amazing workshops and shootouts (@reverieandsol) to help with all your creative needs. They both stood by my side and helped me every step of the way; they truly have helped me stand on my two feet and become a better photographer.
When looking for a mentor, I highly recommend doing research. Don’t be afraid to message people who have taken the courses, workshops, or shootouts that you are looking into. Find out who that person is. There are some “mentors” who seem kind but are not there for you after you have invested money in them. Be diligent about who you are learning from and investing your money in.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brittnicainphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brittnicainphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brittnicainphotography
Image Credits
Rachel Victoria Photography 2024 Mountain Shootout
Reverie & Sol 2024 Greenhouse Shootout
