We’re looking forward to introducing you to EmJay Photography . Check out our conversation below.
EmJay, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Right now, I’m being called to step into my role as both a creative and a businesswoman in a way I never have before. For years, I held back out of fear of failure or being “too much”, but I’ve learned that my voice, my vision, and my work deserve to be seen and heard. I’m leaning into opportunities that once scared me, trusting that real growth happens when we’re willing to be uncomfortable. I’m letting God use me, and even when I feel unqualified, I know He says I’m more than qualified. And I’m ready to take action.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Mariah, but I go by EmJay, and I’m a 26-year-old freelance photographer based in the Forney area, serving the whole DFW region. I love capturing real moments that feel natural and full of life, from weddings and engagements to families, special events, and more. My work has always been soft, vibrant, and dreamy, and while I’m exploring new directions and discovering what else I’m drawn to, those qualities will always be at the heart of my photography. Right now, I’m focused on building my portfolio, connecting with my community, and helping people hold onto the moments that matter most.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how I see the world was when I first started serving as a photographer at my church. Over the past five years, I’ve seen glimpses of everyday struggles and victories in people’s lives, watching them trust God and get through challenges. Outside of church, when I would photograph newborns, gave me the same sense of awe. The stillness, the joy, and the tiny details that make each moment so significant. It’s just me, the baby, and my camera, waiting for that perfect smile reflex, and when it finally happens, I can’t help but shout, “I got it! I got the shot!” Everyone in the room shares that joy, and it reminds me how life is full of pure, meaningful moments. Those experiences have shaped how I see the world: beautiful, precious, and guided by trust in God as we grow through it.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There was a moment in my life when I almost gave up. I’d get cornered and yelled at, all over pictures, and it really wore me down. After a while, I started thinking, “Maybe I shouldn’t be a photographer after all.” But then there were those clients who reminded me why I do this. Moments when I was fully in my element, capturing memories and having the time of my life. Those experiences showed me I can do this on my own, be my own boss, find my worth, and keep sharing my work the way I want to.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One truth that’s really important to me, but I don’t often talk about, is that my worth comes from God, not from what other people think. Even when I mess up or feel like I could do better, trusting that He has a plan for me keeps me grounded and gives me the courage to follow my purpose. I’m not always great at sharing this, but I’m working on it, because part of my journey is using my voice to share His word and inspire others.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who loved deeply and showed kindness and noticed the beauty in every small moment. Whether it was capturing a newborn’s first smile or photographing someone’s special milestone, I want them to say I encouraged others to trust God, find joy in the little things, and follow their passions with courage. Most of all, I hope they remember that I used my gifts to make people feel seen, valued, and leave a little light and hope behind in everything I did.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emjayphotography.my.canva.site/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMMSrVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp0YXj0wrAdMm1D1bZ1FbpfzoG3CejFdv_VETcCx4b7Q633oqauT6pBCV0msQ_aem_Y61snyC_ToK1gfGUzqWOmg
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emjayyphotos?igsh=MWltd3Bpb2NqeDZmZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CHX2obBPZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
EmJay Photography
