Today we’d like to introduce you to Desiree Williams.
Desiree, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
When I was younger, I spent a lot of time with my grandma and she was always taking photos of me or the wildlife or her animals. Every now and then, she would let me practice, and I kind of got a feeling of love and passion, and I was only 10. I knew at that moment, I definitely wanted to work with the camera in some way. After I met my husband in the military, and spent some time there and getting medically discharged, I lost myself with my kids and my home and I forgot about myself. I started looking for different hobbies a mom could get into that I would be able to enjoy doing away from the kids.
I definitely looked at starting photography for a while, and especially while I was looking up different things to do! I finally just dove in, taking notes, learning different cameras and their value. I started looking around for a used camera, just so I could start! I was so anxious! That same night that I posted on my social media, another photographer friend of mine commented and said that she would be willing to sell me her old camera. The price was great and I had to travel up to go get it. That very same night that we agreed on me picking up the camera and me paying her later, I get a message from her saying that someone just anonymously paid for the camera for me.
It doesn’t seem like much, but I truly believe that I put in the time and effort and God blessed me where I wanted to go. I went through a LOT of stress the first year and a half. I was so scared to really dive in, afraid of the rejection, afraid of not being good enough. I definitely went through the imposter syndrome. But while I’m still scared of those things, I’ve tried to push myself past every obstacle, big or small, and attempt to do something that puts me out of my comfort zone.
If it wasn’t for my amazing husband, I wouldn’t be where I’m at today. All the support he’s given me, the times he’s modeled for me so I can get more experience with editing, and the times he’s listened to me complain and cry over the stress of this business. No matter what I’m done, or where I’ve been at, I’ve done it. I’m here, and I’m only going to be going up!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It’s definitely not been a smooth road. One of the biggest issues that I’ve faced is not having the resources that everyone else (other photographers) has around me. The friends they can turn to for any modeling, or just advertising that way.
Being a military wife is not easy, because we jump from place to place so often that it’s hard to really meet someone and have that opportunity to share about your business and ask if they can model, etc.
Another issue that I really struggled with was imposter syndrome. I’ve watched people go from the same type of image that I take on my Nikon, to an absolute masterpiece! So I’m always thinking to myself, no one’s going to want me. I don’t deserve this business if I can’t even make people’s skin glow like that!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a Missouri photographer, I travel just about anywhere capturing memories and special moments that you want to look back on when you’re older. I specialize in Weddings and portraits! Portraits including, boudoir, headshots, or senior sessions.
Something that I’ve noticed that sets me apart is how I talk with brides and grooms before the big day, making sure they’re good to go and I have what I need so I don’t stress them out with an overwhelming amount of questions.
This may be something that a lot of other photographers do, which is awesome, and I definitely feel like that needs to happen more. I believe in creating those magical moments with your partner or even yourself. I want to make sure you’re feeling confident and beautiful when you step in front of my lens, no matter what kind of session it is!
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Stay humble. You’re not superhuman, we can only do, so much so take it one day at a time and only focus on what needs to be done now, not months into the future.
Contact Info:
- Email: desireechristinephotography@gmail.com
- Website: desireechristinephotography.mypixieset.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllThingsCoupleAndYou
