From a Gifted Camera to a Growing Passion

At the end of 2017, my photography journey began with a gift—my very first camera, a Sony a6000, from my husband. At the time, I didn’t know much about cameras, but I had always been curious about Sony. Little did I know, that small but mighty camera would change my life.

Not long after, I had the incredible opportunity to take it with me on a trip to Paris, France. Wandering through the charming streets, capturing the Eiffel Tower glowing at night, and documenting every little moment sparked something inside me. I came home feeling inspired, knowing I wanted to do something meaningful with this camera.

At first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to vlog or pursue photography, but photography just felt right. It was a way to tell stories, to capture emotions, to freeze time in a way that felt deeply personal and intentional. So, I took a leap of faith—through Instagram, I reached out to family and friends, asking if anyone would let me practice by photographing their families or kids. And to my surprise, some did!

Fast forward seven years, and my photography has grown and evolved in ways I never imagined. My style has changed, my perspective has deepened, and I’ve refined my craft to truly capture moments that feel raw, authentic, and full of life. Looking back, I’m so proud of this journey—from that first Sony a6000 to where I am now, doing what I love and serving others through storytelling.

This is more than just a business to me—it’s a passion, a calling, and a way to reflect the beauty of God’s masterpiece in each person I photograph. And I’m just getting started.

Thinking About Pursuing Photography? Here Are My Biggest Tips!

If you’re just starting out in photography or thinking about pursuing it as a creative passion or business, here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

1. Just Start—Even If You Don’t Feel Ready
I had no idea what I was doing when I got my first camera, but that didn’t stop me from practicing, experimenting, and learning along the way. You don’t have to have the perfect gear or years of experience—just start capturing what inspires you.

2. Use What You Have
You don’t need the latest and greatest camera to take beautiful photos. I started with a Sony a6000, and it served me well for years. Buy a used camera! Learn how to use your current gear to its full potential before upgrading. Mastering lighting, composition, and storytelling is way more important than having expensive equipment!

3. Practice, Practice, Practice
Photography is something you get better at by doing. When I first started, I took photos of anything and everything—my travels, my family, my friends. Every shoot taught me something new. Shoot as much as you can, in different lighting conditions, and challenge yourself to improve.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
I reached out to my family and friends when I first started, and that helped me build confidence. Don’t be afraid to ask people if you can photograph them for practice. You’d be surprised how many people will say yes!

5. Learn the Art of Storytelling
Photography is more than just snapping pretty pictures—it’s about telling a story. Whether it’s a wedding, an elopement, or a simple portrait session, the goal is to capture the feeling of the moment. Pay attention to emotions, interactions, and little details that make the story come alive.

6. Stay True to Yourself
As you grow, your style will evolve, and that’s okay! But always stay true to why you started and the kind of images you love to create. Don’t compare your journey to others—just focus on growing in your own way.

“God has given each of us gifts.”

7. Trust That God Has a Plan
I truly believe that photography is more than just a business—it’s a calling. God has given each of us gifts, and He can use those gifts to serve others, capture love, and reflect His beauty in the world. If photography is something on your heart, trust that He placed it there for a reason.

It’s wild to think back to where I started—with a simple Sony a6000 and a dream. I had no idea that what began as a fun experiment would turn into something so meaningful. Looking ahead, my heart is set on continuing to grow, serve my couples and families with love and grace, and create images that bring them back to the most special moments of their lives.

If you’re just starting out, I hope this post encourages you to just begin. You never know where that first click of the shutter might take you.

With love,
Jeanette Amanda