Today we’d like to introduce you to Steph Bolton.
Steph, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always had a love for photography. Every vacation or family event I would take a million pictures. All my family and friends would be so tired of me because I wanted to capture every moment and monument. My mom was the same way and always had a recording of me and my siblings’ big moments. She always had photographs of us all over the house, so it was just a part of my life.
My official start with photography began with I started a fashion blog with my friend Necia called Virtuous Virgos. Being a fashion blogger images are critical, so I bought my first DSLR and started shooting. I began to take pictures of everything from products, people, and blogger events. I shot lookbooks, style tips, and fashion shows. This began my journey. This opened my eyes to see how much fun and a great challenge it was for me.
My journey continued as I began to shoot events at church and for friends. I just continued to get more and more referrals. This gave me great experience to what I shoot now! I shoot families, portraits, events, and creative projects. I have to be truly honest and said that birthday parties and weddings are my favs, simply because I love cake! I also love being able to connect and meet with so many people, brands, and organizations. As I am an Air Force child, I am accustomed to meeting new people I have not only worked with people and brands in the DFW area, but across the country, and soon internationally.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” ― Franklin D. Roosevelt. This is a quote that I always refer back to when I am faced with an obstacle. There have been bumps in my journey as an entrepreneur. I believe at times there is a romanticized view that being an entrepreneur is all fun, you work whenever you want, and you take amazing vacations. It is hard work. Hard. Work. For me, one challenge is having the balance and relaxing, that I do not have to do everything. I am a very tech savvy person and I love using business tools and designing my own website. However, I could be using that time for work on another aspect of Phoenix Michele Photography.
Some advice that I would have for young women who are starting their journey is to know who you are, stand strong, and go for it. Be fearless, do not hesitate to start following your dreams, everyone has to start from somewhere. “You don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started to be great.” I always like to write out my thoughts and ideas in a journal or on my phone, then follow up with research. Research can come in many forms, start with YouTube, connect with others in person and online, go to networking events. Go for it! I’m cheering for you! Seriously if you need someone to be in your corner, let’s connect!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Phoenix Michele Photography – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I am a lifestyle portrait photographer in Arlington, Texas. I shoot family portraits, events like conferences and family celebrations, and creative projects for brands and bloggers. Phoenix Michele Photography is focused on bringing your dream and vision to life. I take the time to get to know you and gain great insight into what you want. I love people and getting to know people. I am also an analyst so I tend to pick apart things and configure out the best options for success.
Before working with my clients, I have a conference call to discuss your theme and ideas. The beauty of photography is that you can have so much fun! My goal is for you to have fun! I love capturing candid moments and interactions. Your personality should show through in photos! I believe that even years down the line when you look at these images it evokes great emotion. Family portraits do not have to be painful and stressful! I promise! I help to guide people with the whole entire process, from start to finish. I will help to determine the best location, time, and even what to wear! I love to have fun and crack jokes. I have a very chill and fun vibe and we will have some great images.
Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
One of the biggest barriers with female leadership is the ability to be accepted for your skills. At times, there seems to be a constant need to prove and validate your skills. I believe at times photography is seen as being just artsy and not technical. However, photography is quite technical not just from the equipment used, but the programs and camera settings to achieve these beautiful images.
Pricing:
- Portraits start at $150
- Couples/Engagement start at $175
- Family portraits starting at $200
- Event Coverage starts at $250 for two hours (birthday celebrations, conferences,etc.)
- Creative Projects pricing varies (small businesses, bloggers, product photography)
- Intimate Weddings pricing varies as I only accept a small number of weddings
Contact Info:
- Website: www.phoenixmichele.com
- Phone: 817-725-7973
- Email: Steph@phoenixmichele.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoenixmichelephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Phoenixmichelephotography/
- Others: https://youtu.be/fx3SJZoSnPg
Image Credit:
Phoenix Michele Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
