Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia Hill
Hi Mia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello everyone! My name is Mia Hill and I am quite the busy body! I was born and raised in St. Louis where I have the biggest and best family out there. I am the lucky daughter of Nicol and Steve, and I have three siblings, Mackenzie, Sydney, and Quin. I lived a pretty normal childhood, but my story really begins at the young age of 17. When I was 17 I enlisted into the Missouri Army National Guard. I chose to do a SPLIT OP program allowing me to do military training and high school/college at the same time. This was important to me as I valued education above all else growing up. I completed Basic Combat Training at 17, and AIT (job training) at 18, certifying me as a Transportation Specialist. After high school, I chose to go to Southeast Missouri State University for four years. There I majored in Criminal Justice and minored in Sociology. My hope was to accomplish my dream of one day being a detective/investigator. Fast forward to my junior year of college, I was introduced to Discover Life Church in Cape Girardeau, MO. I was raised christian, but got lost in the reality of the world. As I began to attend church more and serve, I began to deepen my faith and grow a closer relationship with God… one that I hadn’t realized was so intentional. I realized that my life was incomplete without Him. February of 2023, I made the most amazing decision and decided to get baptized! I gave my life to the One who gave it all for us. This, was life changing. Later that year I felt called to go on a mission trip to Colombia, South America in September. I began raising money for this, but knew I couldn’t do it on my own. Summer of 2023, I purchased my first professional camera and began my photography business, Mia Bella Photography.
Behind the name:
The name “Mia Bella” holds a special place in my heart as it blends my personal identity with the artistry I bring to my photography. “Mia,” meaning “mine” in Italian, signifies a personal connection and a deep sense of ownership and pride in the work I do. It represents the unique and intimate way I capture moments, ensuring that every photograph is a cherished piece of someone’s story.
“Bella,” my middle name, translates to “beautiful” in Italian. It reflects my belief in the inherent beauty found in every subject and moment I photograph. My aim is to highlight and celebrate that beauty, capturing it in a way that is both genuine and timeless. “Mia Bella Photography” symbolizes a fusion of personal touch and artistic vision. It’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about creating beautiful memories and preserving them with the care and love they deserve.
I chose to start this small business as a simple way to raise money for my mission trip. Little did I know, it would turn into one of my greatest passions. Today, I am going over one year strong in my photography business! I am so thankful for the 100+ clients that have supported me this past year of my life and I can’t wait to see where the Lord takes this passion of mine. It has truly been life changing.
July of 2024 I received a job offer as a Foster Care Case Manager. So, not only am I a member of the Missouri Army National Guard, a business leader of Mia Bella Photography, but I now partake in something even bigger; creating a world where everyone belongs for families and children. My life may seem hectic to most people, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. While I am not sure of what comes next, I am confident that the Lord will guide me to his divine purpose He has for me…Thank you Jesus!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I don’t think anything in life comes easy, but I think that is what makes it all worth it in the end. It is so amazing to see the growth from where I started, to where I am now. The obstacles are just part of our testimony.
I went through a really hard transition my senior year of college. I went from “living the college lifestyle”, to never leaving my bedroom because I felt like my life goals weren’t matching the ones around me. I was so ready to achieve all my life goals, while others priorities were, “what time does the bar open?” I lost a lot of friends through this transition, I could even say that I lost myself… I was so worried what others would think and would often compare my self to people who were “better” than me. It took some time to realize my worth, but after I did, it all made sense. I feel as though it’s those obstacles that make you into who you are today.
Therefore, I would say nothing in life is “smooth” if you are truly dedicated to become the best version of yourself. Sometimes you have to fail to succeed. I’d be lying if I said I don’t have days where I feel like a failure, but keeping my mind in the right posture that Gods purpose over my life is bigger than I could ever imagine is keeps me going.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As discussed above I currently own a Personal Photography Business that was started June of 2023. I started off with just photographing couples, and then slowly eased my way into adding more and more clients. I now photograph families, babies, couples, weddings, special events, engagements, and so much more!
I am also apart of the Missouri Army National Guard. I enlisted when I was 17 and I am currently a transportation specialist. I originally enlisted to set myself up for my future self, but it turned into a bigger passion and I am so proud to be a female fighting for our country. Not many people get this experience, but I am so happy I took the leap of faith.
And finally, the newest addition to my life, a Foster Care Case Manager. I just recently started working for KVC as a Foster Care Case Manager in July of 2024. While some days are harder than others, I have truly loved building relationships in our city and having the opportunity to be apart of something bigger.
I would say most people know me for my photography business as it has completely taken off this past year! This business has seriously made me so proud of myself, and shown me what I am truly capable of.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I love all things Christian! I listen to worship music and christian podcasts in my free time. Brandon Lake is one of my all time FAVORITE artists. I’ve seen him multiple times in concert and he has forever changed my outlook on life. His music touches so many individuals all over the world, so it’s an honor to get to listen to him!
While I have hated reading in the past, I have started to enjoy it more as it is kind of my “escape” from the world. Working out is also something I value a ton. I think it is important for your mental health to get your body moving everyday and do something for YOU!
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