Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Harvey
Hi Carrie, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My photography journey started with my dad. He always took photos while I was growing up, and I’ve always looked up to him. He shot with Nikon, so when I bought my first DSLR at 18, it had to be a Nikon, too. Photography became a passion early on, especially when traveling, another love my dad and I share. We took trips out West when I was younger, and I developed a great appreciation for landscape and wildlife photography as a hobby.
After college, I became a high school biology teacher and taught for 11 years. I loved teaching, but photography remained a creative outlet that I kept coming back to. I always wanted to do more with it, so I started spending my summers and free time learning, taking classes, watching endless hours of YouTube, practicing, interning with photographers, and absorbing everything I could from those more experienced than me.
The more I learned, the more I fell in love with the craft. It became about so much more than just taking pictures. That passion eventually turned into a business. Over time, I found my niche in lifestyle, branding, and senior photography—focusing on taking beautiful images and creating an experience for my clients. I love making people feel comfortable, confident, and truly themselves in front of the camera. Now, I get to do what I love every day.
I’ve had some unforgettable experiences. I’ve had the honor of photographing a U.S. president and an NBA player, traveling to the Hamptons for an editorial project, and even working in Paris, capturing images for Victoria Magazine. Those experiences have shaped me as a photographer and deepened my passion to keep learning and improving.
As my business grew, I expanded my offerings to include Bloom Babes, a high school senior model team that brings together girls from different schools for fun and creative sessions. I also developed Harvest Bloom Branding Photography, helping small businesses and entrepreneurs visually tell their stories and increase awareness of their work through branding images.
Now, I specialize in senior, branding, and family photography, creating experiences rather than just photo shoots. I look forward to what is ahead.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Transitioning from a stable teaching career to running my photography business was exciting and terrifying. Learning the ins and outs of running a business was a huge adjustment. I spent many hours educating myself, making mistakes, and fixing them.
Another challenge has been balancing my passion for photography with family life. As a self-employed photographer and a mom, I’ve had to be intentional about setting boundaries and managing my time so I can grow my business while still being present for my family.
There have also been moments of doubt, especially in the beginning—wondering if I was good enough to turn my passion into a career and if people would invest in my work. But every struggle pushed me to keep learning, improving, and believing in what I have to offer.
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’m a photographer specializing in high school senior portraits, business branding photography, and family sessions focusing on real, meaningful moments. My work is about more than just taking pictures—I create an experience that allows my clients to feel comfortable, confident, and truly themselves in front of the camera.
I’m known for making people feel at ease, even those who say they feel awkward in photos. By the end of their session, they’re relaxed, having fun, and genuinely enjoying the experience. I focus on capturing a mix of classic portraits and natural, candid moments, ensuring that my clients’ true personalities shine through without overly posed shots.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my work’s impact on people. Seeing a senior feel beautiful and confident, helping a business elevate its brand with professional images, or capturing the love and connection within a family make this career so fulfilling.
My genuine desire to connect with my clients and build meaningful relationships sets me apart. I truly appreciate the uniqueness of each person I photograph and take the time to understand their personality and vision. This allows me to create natural, authentic images that reflect who they are. My goal isn’t just to deliver beautiful photos—it’s to provide an experience that my clients will cherish long after the session is over.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support and guidance of many people. My dad played a huge role in my early love for photography. He always took photos, and I admired him so much that I followed in his footsteps, buying my first Nikon at 18. His passion for capturing moments, hard work, genuine spirit, and love of travel shaped how I see the world through my lens, inspiring my creativity and authenticity.
When I decided to pursue photography professionally, I leaned on the knowledge and mentorship of other photographers. Their willingness to teach and support gave me the confidence to grow in this field. Many offered valuable advice, allowed me to troubleshoot challenges, shared insights, and even invited me on shoots that helped shape my skills and allowed me to figure out my personal style and niche.
My family, especially my husband, has been my biggest cheerleader. He has supported me in every way, whether encouraging me to leap into full-time photography, helping with the business side of things, or simply being there when I needed reassurance. My friends and cousins have also played a huge role, always cheering me on, celebrating my wins, and offering their support and assistance.
And, of course, my clients. The people who trusted me early on, continue to support my work, and refer me to their friends and family have played a huge role in my business. Their belief in my work has helped me build a business doing what I love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.harvestbloomphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harvest_bloom/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harvestbloomphotography/
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-harvey-21824013b
- Twitter: https://x.com/HARVest_Bloom
