Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Mann.
Hi Emily, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
In high school, I used to play with the “family camera”. The super old one that barely worked but somehow always made its way to every Christmas and birthday dinner each year. I took pictures of plants and rocks behind our house but never even considered it might be my main source of income or joy just a few short years later.
Fast forward to December 2020, I was just about to “celebrate” my one year working at a large bank in San Antonio, Texas. I couldn’t and still can’t say enough about the amazing leadership, culture and values of this company but there was something missing for me. A lack of accomplishment and excitement. The easiest tasks were the hardest to complete and everything felt numb. It was this season of my life that I finally learned and accepted that I was, to my core, a creative person. I realized that the longer I went without expressing and creating, the unhappier I became.
Thankfully this job allowed me the opportunity and resources to invest in upgraded camera equipment. I pretty much dove in head first! With no experience whatsoever running a business, haha. Everyday I am learning how to work harder and be more successful but the first thing I ask myself when I wake up each morning is: “are you happy”?
So long as the answer is yes, I will keep on this path. Life is too short to not look forward to each new day.
Though a tough season, I will forever be grateful. Walking through what I truly hated showed me what I would love so much more.
About eight months in now and I am on the road traveling every weekend. Shooting weddings, events couples and families. Spending time with friends and family all while visiting new places! It truly is the dream, I could not be more grateful.
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?
Youtube is my best friend! I run into business questions daily. I had to learn from the ground up about: editing software, lens’, booking sites, pricing and so much more. A new challenge everyday, it seemed like for a bit. On the flip side, I also had to accept the reality that art is completely subjective. One person thinks I’m worth more than what I charge while another person doesn’t see value in my work at all. But that absolutely comes with working in a space like this, and that’s okay!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I like to say I shoot all things photo – I’ll try anything once. I especially love engagement sessions and partnering with local brands to create social media content. Anything with lots of creative freedom, I’m there! I’m a huge fan of editing photos with super warm tones, everything, selfies to wedding galleries. Give me all the moody light and coloring! It’s a personal goal of mine to make all grass brown, haha.
I am most proud of projects when I leave and I’ve made a friend while working. I think that’s my second favorite part of this whole thing is making so many connections that lead to more and more opportunities.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Oh man, the list could go on forever. My biggest supporters have to be my family and inner circle of friends who have shared my content and encouraged me when comparison slips in. I took a big leap when this started and I had so many people cheering me on. I also have to mention all the clients who took a chance on me when I first started out. I am so honored by those who trusted and continue to trust me with the beautiful responsibility of capturing memories of their special moments.
Pricing:
- Family Session: Starting $170
- Wedding: Starting $1500
- Individual Session: Starting $150
Contact Info:
- Email: emilymann95@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emilymmariephoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Emilymariemannn
Image Credits:
@emilymmariephoto
