Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Byrd
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was the girl who took 10 rolls of film with my cheap point-and-shoot camera to summer camp. I’ve always loved taking photos and that passion became a hobby as I went to college and started my career. Years later, I was working as the marketing director for an international real estate company in St. Louis. While I loved using my degree in a great atmosphere, I also missed the moments at home with my baby girl. As I anticipated the arrival of our second child, I mentioned my desire to stay home but also my hesitation, wanting a creative outlet. My husband wisely suggested my photography, which had opened into a small side hustle.
In June 2017 I began the journey I’m on and I haven’t looked back! I’ve had the privilege of documenting births, special events and routine days. I’ve utilized my background in PR and marketing to help my branding clients utilize their images well. I’ve captured numerous moments of newborns, families, children and seniors. It’s always a blessing to have a client return to work with me because we clicked. It’s a thrill to be invited into others’ lives and capture their story for them!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Some of my struggles has been the comparison monster. Not only am I a photographer, but I’m also a homeschool mom. Teaching my kids and allowing them to learn at home, doesn’t allow me to pursue every single opportunity that comes my way. I’ve had to realize my fully booked schedule is different from that of a photographer who doesn’t have kids or if those kids go to school. I’ve had to be creative and utilize the time I do have to pour into my business and into my clients.
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?
I specialize in lifestyle and documentary photography. I especially love capturing families and documenting their daily lives as well as documenting births.
I’m most proud of branching into documentary photography, which is a lot more hands off but requires an eye to capture the magic in the mundane.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I don’t think I would have pursued a side hustle in photography years ago, without the encouragement of my sister who is now a photographer too.
My husband has been a huge cheerleader. He has consistently encouraged me to pursue opportunities, even when some might be risky. He’s a great confidence booster.
Other people I have learned from include podcast mentors. I often listen to and find inspiration from The Angie McPherson Show, The Art & Soul Show, Amplify Your Brand & Business and The Jasmine Star Show.
Pricing:
- Lifestyle Portraits Begin at $199
- Documentary Photography Begins at $399
- Branding Photography Begins at $400
- Birth Story Begins at $450
- Newborn Lifestyle Sessions Begin at $450
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rarevisionphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rarevisionphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RareVisionPhotography
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolebyrdphotographer/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rarevisionphotography
