Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Hendley.
Nicole, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Since I was a child, my life has been motivated by the desire to infuse meaning into seemingly ordinary moments. I have always been enamored by the idea that each morning presents an opportunity for celebration. As I get older, I sense an even greater need to facilitate joy in my own life and in the lives of those around me. A few years ago, I started dreaming about how photography could serve as a creative means to encourage people in their journey. I saw this craft as an opportunity to celebrate people and their stories. The people I have been able to photograph are so incredibly resilient and inspiring. From family shoots to maternity photos to engagement parties and everything in-between, it has been such an honor to be trusted with capturing special seasons of life for my clients.
Has it been a smooth road?
I know I am not alone in dealing with self-doubt. Most anyone I speak to, especially those in creative fields, deals with their own internal voice of criticism and insecurity on a daily basis. Impostor syndrome has been the thorn in my side from the beginning of my photography journey. However! I have found immense relief in exposing this to friends who are in support of me and my business. I have also felt such love and understanding from other photographers who have talked me through their own dealings with questioning their value as a creative person, entrepreneur, etc. I know self-doubt will linger. Such is life. But what I try to do is take care of myself. I allow myself opportunities for inspiration, I vent to people who love me, and I try to remember not to take myself too terribly seriously. Though the critical voice in my head is loud, I want to pay less attention to its fear and listen closely to my thoughts of curiosity, generosity, self-confidence, and hope.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of as a company? What sets you apart from others?
As Nicole Hendley Photography, I specialize in portraiture. This includes everything from engagement photo shoots to maternity sessions to senior pictures. I am most proud of the way my clients feel when they leave a shoot. I know that I will provide quality photos that people are very happy with. This is a no-question piece of the puzzle. Beyond this, my goal is when people remember their time with me, they feel delighted by the time we had together. What sets me apart is how comfortable I make an experience that otherwise might be stressful or marked by self-consciousness. I do everything in my power to make people feel like absolute rock-stars when they are in front of my camera!
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Absolutely! DFW is full of talent, but it does not feel over-saturated or impossible to navigate. I also believe that this city is special in that it is marked by generosity. I have come in contact with so many photographers who have offered an incredible amount of support and advice, especially when I was just starting out.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nicolehendley.com
- Phone: 817-584-5545
- Email: nicolehendleyphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: @nicole_hendley
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolehendleyphotography
Suggest a story: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
