Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Ferguson.
Hi Courtney, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had a creative soul. If it wasn’t painting, drawing, or playing an instrument, it was something else—photography kind of fell into my lap. I was gifted my mother-in-law’s 12-year-old camera shortly after she passed away, and I wanted to photograph my daughter 6 monthly milestone session. We didn’t have much money at the time, so I thought I could do this. How hard could it be? And then it just snowballed into this small humble business known today as “Beloved Soul Photography.” I’m an education junkie, and since that first moment, I’ve soaked up everything I could to learn and perfect my craft. I’ve been encouraged and supported so much by friends and, family, mentors. And everyone who has let me into a small piece of their life to preserve that season.
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
I’ve faced a few challenges while in business and moved around a bunch. And each time, it’s relaying that foundation and starting from the ground up. I also began being self-taught and thought a photography business was taking photos, but it’s more than that. I had to learn about running an actual business. Anything that goes into any other type of business goes into a photography business, and because of that, I wear many hats and have many other tasks I need to take on.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Beloved Soul Photography?
I’m an all-seasons-of-life photographer. That means through any season of life that you would want to be documented, I am here. I want to grow with my clients as they get engaged, married, start a family and move through each season of life. I primarily focus on couples, maternity, motherhood, families, and weddings. I offer photo sessions that create real memories and preserve the season of life you are in right now.
My favorite thing to photograph (and what I’m known for) is anything about motherhood. And that’s because it resonates with me so much as a mom. Motherhood is raw and life-changing. So often, mamas are the glue (Dad, you’re important too, but this one is for the mamas), and they are the ones who are behind the camera, making sure every little thing is remembered and preserved. I want them to feel seen just as they are. On the hard days, in the chaos, on the days full of joy, in the quiet and stillness.
This business means so much to me because it allowed me to be at home with my daughter and contribute meaningfully. She gets to witness a business’s buildings and be a part of it (often times you’ll see her with me at a session!). I’m proud of that.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
My husband: He’s my number one fan (I know, cheesy, but it’s true). He’s been the encourager that I needed from the get-go. He’s helped me to step out of my comfort zone. He’s allowed at sessions, grabbed behind-the-scenes for me, and even modeled. He stayed up late at night while I edited and helped me troubleshoot things when I couldn’t figure them out. He’s a gem.
My mentor turned friend: Kendra Harrell, also known as Kendra Ashton Photography. She’s taught me so much, not just with taking photos but also with the business side of things. She’s challenged me when I needed it, encouraged me, and poured so much into my business. She knew I could do it and helped me realize that when I didn’t think I could.
My family: They’ve all been cheerleaders and have poured so much love into me and my business.
My clients: without them, this would not be possible. I have the best clients ever. They believe in me, and they help to inspire the work I create. They let me into such an intimate part of their lives, which is humbling.
Contact Info:
- Website: belovedsoulphotography.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/belovedsoulphotography
- Facebook: facebook.com/belovedsoulphotography
Image Credits
Kathryn Johnson Photography (for personal photo)
