Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Boesse-Dupuis.
Hi Samantha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My photography journey began in my teenage years, when I developed a passion for capturing portraits, nature, and landscapes—anything that caught my eye. The summer before my senior year of high school, I realized photography could be more than a hobby; it could be a career. That realization set me on a focused path. I began researching photography schools and ultimately enrolled at the Hallmark Institute of Photography in Turners Falls, Massachusetts. I completed the intensive 10-month program and graduated in 2015 with a Professional Photographer’s Certificate.
After graduating college and launching my photography business, I quickly discovered a deep love for capturing families, high school seniors, and couples. Family portraits hold a special place in my heart, especially because I grew up without many of them. Now that both of my parents have passed, I deeply cherish the few photos I do have and often wish there were more. This personal experience drives my passion for preserving special moments and memories—creating timeless images that families can treasure for a lifetime.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I was born and raised in Massachusetts, where I originally launched my photography business. Life changes eventually led me across the country to Colorado, where I lived for five years. After marrying my husband, Justin, and welcoming our daughter, Grace, we relocated to Central Florida to be closer to family—where we’ve now lived for four years and plan to stay for the foreseeable future. Moving twice and restarting my business in new states has been both challenging and rewarding. Each transition meant rebuilding my client base, discovering new locations to shoot, and learning how to market myself effectively in new and unfamiliar communities.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I named my business after my daughter, Grace. She’s been a constant source of motivation in my life, and it felt only right to have her name represent the heart behind my work.
One of the things I’m known for in my photography business is the patience and care I bring to every session. I take my time with each client—especially families with children—to ensure everyone feels comfortable and relaxed. I come prepared with poses and creative ideas, but I’m always open to client inspiration. When a client shares an idea and I’m able to bring it to life—even better than they imagined—it’s incredibly rewarding.
Outside of photography, I’m also very active in my community through my full-time role as the Hospitality Coordinator at Chick-fil-A Mount Dora. This position has allowed me to build strong, meaningful connections with local families and organizations. One partnership especially close to my heart is with the local non-profit Toddlers of Lake County (TLC). Over the past few years, I’ve collaborated with TLC and fellow photographers to offer affordable family photo sessions, giving back to the community in a way that’s both impactful and fulfilling.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
One of the key characteristics I believe has contributed to my success is how personable I am. I truly enjoy getting to know my clients and forming lasting, meaningful relationships and even new friendships. These connections often lead to repeat sessions and word-of-mouth referrals, as clients feel comfortable working with me and confident recommending me to their friends and families. It’s those relationships that make this work so rewarding.
In addition to building strong client connections, I’ve been honored to receive recognition within the Lake County community. I’ve been nominated for several local awards in the Best Photographer category, including Best of 352, Triangle Sun Newspaper, and Lake & Sumter Style Magazine. While I didn’t take home first place in those listings, being nominated was an incredible honor and a meaningful win in itself. Most recently, in 2024, I was proud to be named a Top 2 winner in the Leesburg Choice Awards for Best Photographer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.graceandcophotos.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceandcophotos
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graceandcophotos
