My studio definitely didn’t happen overnight, and I appreciate it even more now because of the blood sweat and tears (literally) that were shed to get here!
Having a portrait studio has been a dream of mine for a very long time. I started out my business in my dining room around 10 years ago with just a big window and some blankets. My collection of props began to grow, and I dabbled around with learning studio light, so my husband and I converted our 12’x12′ spare bedroom into my home “studio.” I worked out of my home for about 4 years and it served me well. (I served nearly 400 clients here!) But my business was continuing to grow and I needed to find a commercial space. It was definitely time to move on!
Dining room days
12’x12′ Spare bedroom studio
I was so grateful to find a small 500 square foot space where I shared a building with my friend, Brianna, who owned an ultrasound boutique (The Bump) at the time. I worked there, and continued to grow my business for 2 more years, but still was finding I was outgrowing this space as well! Taking down set ups, and putting different things up was exhausting and time consuming. I needed more room!
500 Sq foot space in Valdosta
Unit on Baytree Rd.
But in 2018, a dream opportunity was put in front of me. One of my very best friends, Kelly and I, decided to renovate a 100 year old building in Hahira, GA! What?! Are we nuts?! We did a complete overhaul, and now Kelly is using the front part as her State Farm office, and I use the back 1500 square feet for my photography space. We thought we lost our minds at first, as the building was definitely not the most attractive thing you’ve ever seen. We even nick named it the dungeon. In fact my mom even said. “Are you sure this is a good idea? ” But we had a vision, and decided to take a leap of faith together and go for it! After some pretty intense renovations (and a little bit of crying and wondering we got ourselves into….maybe a few bad words were said over a glass of wine) we now have our dream work spaces!! I still can’t believe I get to work here. Pinch me! I’m beyond grateful, and feel so blessed to spend time with my clients in a space I am so proud of! Dreams really do come true with patience and perseverance. I remember thinking 10 years ago, this would never be possible, but here I am and could not be more grateful. Thank you to all of my clients who have been with me since the beginning of my “dining room days!” Thank you from the bottom of my heart for believing in me! I love you guys!
Below are some more of the finished studio! Enjoy!