Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Andry.
Hi Monica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I am married to my high school sweetheart and we have two teen boys. We live in Clermont, Florida. We have two dogs and one very special cat, which we have potty trained Meet the Fockers style… I love sharing this accomplishment as I, too am still amazed that after almost five years, I have a toilet-trained cat…
Growing up, I always took pictures, I mean I am pretty sure me and my friends invented the selfie before it was a thing. I honestly remember thinking how different it was; we all wanted to be in the picture and no one wanted to be the photographer… Now I do not mind always being the one behind the camera.
My husband has been a great influence in my life and pushing me to pursue dreams I did not even know could be a reality. I was a student at UCF when my husband bought me my first piece of professional photography equipment… My camera, I immediately fell in love with photography more than I already had been and I was smitten. I loved taking pictures and wanted to master my craft so I started taking photos of everything and anything. I would practice on my family and friends. I would take pictures at my son’s baseball games, scouting events and weddings I attended just to practice and get better.
These efforts in mastering my camera lead me to the career I now have. I didn’t know then but that determination and passion showed to others, they saw my potential and encouraged me. I will never forget my first opportunity, I was approached by a scout mom who had a family friend planning a sweet 16 and they needed a photographer, she wanted to know if I would be interested and if she could pass my information along.
Yes, of course – This was so flattering, I was elated. Slight problem, I had never thought of my camera as a job but here I was booking a gig… I had no idea what I was doing but figured the event was almost a year away so I had plenty of time to figure it out. I had an amazing event, I learned a lot along the way and am very thankful to the people who have given me the opportunities to do so.
SO many people believed in me and that gave me great strength to give it a shot. I decided I should believe in me too and I educated myself with photography courses, editing courses and practiced repetitively.
I have dabbled in just about every photography avenue. Primarily an outdoor photographer, I am a minimalist photographer, less is more. I like simple setups if any at all.
I am so happy to announce that I have converted my spare room into a home studio exclusively for newborn and boudoir sessions. I am so happy to add these sessions to my photography services.
Today I have built a reputation for myself. I have repeat clients and grow as a photographer and person. This community is amazing, the support and love keep me going. I now specialize in families, maternity, newborns, holiday photos, weddings and seniors.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has not always been smooth, there have been great struggles along the way. One of the biggest being self-doubt, I would get easily discouraged if someone inquired and then went with a different photographer.
I have two boys who are watching and learning from me. I have to show them how to overcome obstacles with a smile on your face and a list in your pocket of how to do better next time.
It would be a lie to say things wouldn’t hurt my feelings and make me think less of my work and start the viscous comparison loop – I had to stop caring. I had to realign my mental space and learn that I am not everyone’s photographer and that is OKAY; it does not mean I am not a photographer…
This cycle often led to lack of motivation to show up and be consistent.
I first learned my camera, then I had a new obstacle learning how to edit and perfecting my style, which turns out I don’t like to conform or fit in a pretty little box… so I like to say I have editing flow and moods more so than a style. Once I felt that I had learned the basics more or less, I started to focus on advertising and how to really use social media to help grow my following.
Learning as I go has not always been fun but I like to said I am always learning and growing. Once I feel I mastered one subject, I dive into the next topic, I love learning.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a professional photographer. I specialize in portrait and lifestyle photography. Candid, genuine smiles and laughter. I love guiding a session with lots of prompts rather than poses.
What I think sets me apart from others is my creativity and artistic eye. A session with me is not only something beautiful to hang on your walls it is an experience you remember and enjoy reflecting on. I love creating a lasting memory for my clients to hold on to. The little things I capture that you hold near and dear to your heart long after you receive your gallery.
I am proud of my perseverance, determination and willing to try new things. I accept challenges
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Risk taking encourages growth and room for change. I think that it is still very important to be diligent and not make reckless decisions. You must make calculated risks and reevaluate after you have seen some results.
While I am a cautious person risks are necessary for expanding a business. I have taken many chances on myself, new ideas different challenges and tried new things. Some things flopped and failed in my face while others paid off immensely.
All of which I LEARNED from, each time I fell down there was a lesson that I was taught. As I continue to stumble and get on my feet time and time again, I know that It is worth it. I am stronger for each trial and tribulation.
Pricing:
- Senior Sessions starting at $150
- Maternity Sessions starting at $250
- Family Sessions starting at $299
- Newborn Sessions starting at $299
- Boudoir Sessions starting at $350
Contact Info:
- Email: Contact@MonicaAndryPhotography.com
- Website: www.MonicaAndryPhotography.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/Monicaandryphotography
- Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Monicaandryphotography
Image Credits
All photo credits to Monica Andry Photography
