Meet Marissa Frederick

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Frederick.

Marissa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started my photography journey back in 2011. My husband was deployed to Afghanistan and I was home with two kids. I needed something to keep me busy but also needed something for ME. I was mom and only mom. I needed something for Marissa. I’ve always had a love for photography.

Ever since I was little. I use to steal my older brother’s sweet ninja turtle camera and use all the film in it haha. So once I finally got my own camera, I decided to take what I loved and turn it into a business. Eight years later, I’ve had a very successful run with it. My husband is military so we do move around a lot. Having to move every three or so years has extreme disadvantages for my business. I have to completely start over every move we make. Gain all new clients. Get my name out there. It’s HARD. When we moved here to Georgia, I actually didn’t do much photography the first year. I was so burnt out on having to start all over when I had such a successful time in New York. But I finally got back into the grove and things have started looking up! <3 I’m hoping for bigger and better things in the future!!

Great, 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?
Not at all. Being a military family is rough. Having to pack up our whole life and move it to a completely new place every 2-3 years isn’t fun. However, I do love getting to explore NEW places! My dad was Army for my entire life. He retired when I was in my 20s. So the constant moving aspect I’m used to! But starting my business completely over from scratch is something new and it’s not easy by any means!!! The competition is HIGH.

Please tell us about Marissa Frederick Photography.
I am a 100% natural light photographer. I don’t use flash nor have I ever. I pride myself on being able to capture the most amazing photos with JUST the light mother nature provides for us! I specialize in children. I love photographing children!! Being goofy to get that perfect smile. Getting those kids who refuse to smile and me getting them to crack. That’s probably my favorite part. Hahah. Getting that smile they tried sooooo hard not to give me. It’s a feeling of success for sure, lol. I think I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve been doing this for eight years and every single client I’ve had has made me feel so special. Knowing I’ve provided the best service to them. I always aim to please so I never want anyone to leave a session feeling anything but GREAT.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Honestly, my favorite memory from childhood isn’t photography related but it was all the Christmases I got to enjoy. My parents made Christmas time the most AMAZING time in mine and my siblings lives! Everything about it was perfect. It was always so magical. The tree, the lights, the baking and of course the presents! lol. Sleeping downstairs every Christmas Eve to try and catch Santa in the act. We never did succeed haha but we sure tried! Ever since I always make Christmas just as special for my kids!!! So they can grow up with the same magical christmases that I had!

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: rissalanee27
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/marissafrederickphotography

Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.