Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Coe.
Hi Danielle, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
For me, photography has always been something I enjoyed doing. I loved all things art. In my spare time as little girl, you’d find me illustrating and taking pictures with disposable camera. In high school, I decided to take a photography class and I learned all the ins-and-outs of film cameras, settings, and how to develop my own images in a dark room. My first advanced camera was a Minolta 35mm.
Then the digital era came about. I remember my Dad purchased our first digital camera, which I’m pretty sure was a Sony or Nikon. I would mainly take photos of nature and my friends. Then of course there was the coolpix for all those MySpace profile photos. Haha.
I LOVED taking photos, but when I joined the military, it became more of a hobby. My husband knew I loved taking photos, and he actually got me a Nikon DSLR when we got married. I would literally always be taking photos and learning where I fell on that spectrum. When I separated from the military and had our son, I really decided to take it more seriously. I taught myself the business side—and for sure it was slow compared to the already established photographers in our area, but I was determined to make a name for myself. I went back to school and took another photography class and really dove into it full-speed. It also doubled as a memory refresher.
From Germany to our permanent home here now in Georgia (a lot of blood, sweat, and tears, later) I have made it into my own little business, going on five years. I love who I am behind the camera. I love that photography is my outlet to creatively direct. I love the feeling of delivering galleries to clients. I love the friendships and connections I’ve made. I will never take this journey for granted.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It most certainly has not been smooth. Establishing yourself as a photographer and small business owner is a lot of work. Photography isn’t just a job to me, it’s something I genuinely LOVE doing, but in the beginning and even now, there have been ups and downs. We are a military family so for a while, it was constantly establishing myself in a new state until we settled down here in Georgia. I finally established my business, but there is a lot of legwork. You want to advertise, make sure your delivering galleries that receive good reviews because word of mouth is everything. I’ve accepted I won’t always be for everyone, and that’s okay. I mean of course, I still struggle with imposter syndrome and self-doubt/comparison. I think it’s something that unfortunately is unavoidable, but I definitely try my hardest to stay motivated and confident. I think having a strong community helps encourage me. My family and friend’s unwavering support does not go unnoticed, and I found a love for helping others succeed in this business, and that gives me purpose too. When I first started out, I never had anyone reach out or want to extend a welcome. All my offers to go shoot and practice just for fun were disregarded. It always felt competitive. So, I decided I would always be there for other photographers whether that’s to help them learn or extend a referral. I think it’s important. I think that we all deserve a seat at the table.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a Middle Georgia based and destination photographer. I specialize in elopements, weddings, and lifestyle portraits.
I think my work being published on a handful of platforms is something I am most proud of. To see my work showcased across the globe is such a euphoric feeling. I am overwhelmed with the amount of joy and I cannot thank my family and my clients enough.
I think what sets me apart from others is my style of photography. It’s a little bit of everything I love. It’s a little bit of moody, meets cinematic. I love earth tones and vintage vibes so you’ll find that in representation of my work.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I think success can be a multitude of things. I wouldn’t just limit success to being a “successful business owner” I think successes come from those around you that help lift you up and encourage you to keep striving for more. I think success is the journey and the moments that define you and your business.
Contact Info:
- Email: Candidcoephotography@gmail.com
- Website: www.candidcoephotography.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/candidcoephotography
- Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/candidcoephotography
Image Credits:
Rosley Events Goldies Flower Truck Sierra Devin Photo WoodStock Flowers Belfiore Bridal Everlasting Bridal Monroe
