Shannon's story

It was on the front porch talking to a friend, when it dawned on me. This wasn’t an option—it was a calling. An unshakable feeling, down to the very last cell in my body, that I had to share my passion for entrepreneurship with the world. I had no idea, in that moment, that my life would change forever. Or even more shockingly, just how much it would change…

I never thought I could build a photography business, much less attract actual clients. I didn’t have a college degree, I was new in town, and I only knew a handful of people. But I started with what I had—my friends. They told their friends, and before I knew it, I was busier than I ever expected for a beginner. I could hardly believe it.

As the demand grew, I took a leap of faith and made things official—handling the legal side and fully committing to this dream. It was either going to work, or it wasn’t. But I wouldn’t know unless I tried.

My first studio was tiny, but it was mine. Then, as my business grew, I upgraded to a bigger space. But just before COVID hit, I made the tough decision to let my studio go and shift my focus to outdoor sessions, moving my office into my home. Looking back, it feels like that was meant to be. The world changed, and so did I.

Even now, I still love studio work and rent from photographer friends when needed. But one day, I hope to have my own space again—a place where creativity and confidence can thrive. Until then, I’ll keep doing what I love most: capturing moments, telling stories, and proving that sometimes, taking a chance on yourself is the best decision you’ll ever make.