We recently had the chance to connect with Andrea Greenidge and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Andrea, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
When you own a business, people often assume that you are making a lot of money and have a massive customer base. However, the reality is quite different. Many business owners don’t earn as much as others think, and they may not have a large catalog of customers. For me, my business is a ministry. It exists to bless others and make them feel loved, seen, valued, and appreciated. When clients receive their photos and experience tears of joy, that’s when you’ve truly hit the jackpot.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Andrea, and I am the owner of Andrea Zaidilie Photography, LLC. I specialize in Portrait, Family, Newborn, Maternity, Smash Cake, and Senior Photography in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Johnson County, Texas area. I am known for my nurturing approach and attention to detail when working with children. I have a passion for capturing authenticity in a non-traditional and intricate way. I have always been drawn to both the business and artistic sides of photography, which may not be appealing to everyone. Every day, I learn something new and apply it to my business, and so far, it has been working well!
I have been rebranding my business to reflect a more mature image that aligns with where I am in my life now. This new phase has shown me that change can be positive. When I first started my business, I was just a teenager, and as life progresses, I am evolving along with it. As my business grows, so do my young clients and my personal development.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
As a child, my small stature was often seen as a limitation, but I refused to let that define what I could accomplish. I faced obstacles that felt like walls in front of me, but I learned to break through them. I realized that when God calls you to do something, the only validation you need is from Him and yourself.
Simone Biles is a powerful source of inspiration for me. Her height didn’t hinder her, she leveraged it to shatter expectations and set new standards. I embody that spirit. The world may label me as small, but I know the Lord has much bigger plans for me, and for you.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self not to put so much pressure on myself because of others’ opinions. Instead, I would encourage myself to place all my goals, desires, dreams, and worries in God’s hands. There is no need to prove or explain anything to anyone; just focus on yourself. If you want to do something, go for it. Work hard in silence; not everyone needs to know what you’re doing. Remember, you don’t have to say yes, it’s perfectly okay to say no.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
If you’re not getting enough bookings, it doesn’t mean your work is lacking. That’s one of the biggest misconceptions, there is a photographer out there for everyone. You don’t have to be fully booked to know your worth. Booking just five sessions is a fantastic achievement! There are times when I only manage to get one session.
Simply purchasing a camera that takes good photos does not make you a photographer. I believe photography is both a gift and a practice. One day, someone may ask you to teach them, but if you haven’t honed your skills, you won’t be able to help. If you truly love photography, you should be able to use any camera handed to you.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I always strive to give my best in my photography because it is my passion and serves as an escape for me. When I take portraits, I feel a connection that goes deeper than just capturing a moment. Sometimes, while editing, I become emotional because I feel blessed to have met everyone I’ve photographed, whether our interaction was positive or negative. There have been many instances where I believe I’ve created my best work, yet I go unpraised. However, I want you to know that I don’t mind. I focus on doing what I need to do, and I believe that God recognizes how hard I work. I take all my photos with love, and I don’t expect anything in return. Just seeing you share your photos warms my heart, or even a simple thank you means a lot to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://andreazaidiliephotographyllc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreazaidiliephotography?igsh=MXJpZ3NhazhqdmV2Zg==
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-zaidilie-greenidge-980272292
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1B6CgB5HsL/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
Andrea Zaidilie Photography, LLC
