Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Hill.
Hi Danielle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
To be completely honest, I never saw myself as a photographer. My journey in photography began when I had my daughter. I received my first DSLR camera the Christmas after she was born so that I could capture moments with her. Once I started taking photos of her growing up and of our family, I couldn’t stop. I loved the feeling that looking back on those images gave me. I began to watch videos and practice more and more to learn what I could in order to up the quality of my photos. Friends and family began to ask for photos, and eventually, it grew from there. I decided one day that maybe, this was what I was meant to do. I took the plunge and went all in. I invested in gear, mentorships and continued to practice any chance I could. I absolutely love what I do, the moments I am able to capture, and the feelings I get knowing that I am giving my clients memories to last a lifetime is the best reward.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Starting a business from square one is HARD. Knowing hardly anything and jumping in the deep end is scary. Even though there are plenty of obstacles to tackle, it’s so rewarding. You have to face the fact that you don’t know everything, and you probably never will. But the other half of that is understanding that not knowing everything is ok. One thing I love about this field is that it is always changing and evolving. There’s constantly new ideas coming to light, new trends to try, gear to explore. You’re pretty much learning by trial and error everyday. Learning what works and what doesn’t and pushing myself out of my comfort zone is what I honestly believe makes me a better photographer.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a travel wedding and elopement photographer! I’ve done weddings from my home state of Florida, as far west as Colorado and Nevada, and as north as New York. I love capturing weddings big or small, and I’d say that’s where my specialty is. It can be stressful but it’s also my happy place. I’m based in Palm Bay, Florida, and when I’m not traveling, I’m able to capture not only weddings but maternity, newborn and family photos too. I’m so proud of how much this job has allowed me to grow and how much I have accomplished. Traveling for weddings, being asked to do this interview, working with so many amazing business is something I dreamed of when I first began. For it to be a reality now, I don’t have words for how incredible it feels. I believe that the relationships I have with my clients is truly what sets me apart. Let’s be honest, I’m going to be all up in your personal space taking photos of you. You don’t want a stranger doing that. You’re going to be more comfortable with a friend. So that’s who I strive to be for you. I want to make our time together fun, comfortable and memorable! I like to start my sessions by asking clients about their days, sharing experiences, etc. Being that way has also led me have the best relationships with clients after their session is over. I get to follow them on their life journeys. From engagement all the way to family photos years later. It really is a blessing.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Orlando is gorgeous! Anytime I get to shoot here, the creativity is flowing. You can go to one area and it will look completely different from a shoot you did a month ago. Being an artist that is so incredible to have. It lets your creativity spark run free. Traffic is always going to be my go to answer about any city haha. But when the locations are so good, you can let it slide.
Pricing:
- My regular sessions begin at $300
- Elopements begin at $500
- Weddings begins at $1200
Contact Info:
- Email: daniellemariephoto@aol.com
- Instagram: @daniellemarie.photo
- Facebook: Danielle Marie Photo @DMariePhoto1
