Today we’d like to introduce you to Tabatha O’Brien.
Hi Tabatha, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’ve always wanted to be a photographer ever since I was a little kid! I actually found my 5th-grade yearbook not too long ago, and there was a question asking what I wanted to be when I grew up. My answer? “A famous photographer!” I guess it’s always been in me!
In high school, I joined the yearbook staff, and in college, I fell in love with photography all over again during the film and darkroom days. I started out photographing my friends and family and quickly made a career out of it.
When I moved to Dallas, I began working for a newborn photography company at a local hospital and that’s really where everything took off. I connected with so many amazing families, nurses, and doctors who continue to book and refer me as their families keep growing!
My husband is also a Dallas fireman so about half of my clients come from fire familes which makes my business feel more like a community! I’m so grateful for all of my clients and all of the referrals! Word of mouth is everything!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Getting started in this business can be tough! There are so many talented photographers out there and so much to learn. I’ve taken countless classes and mentorships to get to where I am today. If I could give one piece of advice, it would be to invest in education instead of trying to figure it all out alone. It’s soooo worth it! I’ve also started mentoring other photographers myself, and it’s been such a rewarding experience! If you’re looking for some guidance on shooting and connecting, reach out through my website! I’d love to help you grow too!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in family, couples, newborns, and wedding photography, but I love it all! I’m based out of the Dallas/Rockwall area, but I’m always up for traveling! I’m super down to earth! I love people, animals, traveling, and anything outdoors!
Most of my sessions are outdoors with a candid/lifestyle vibe, but I also have a studio for indoor sessions. My style is very bold, colorful, and fun! My heart is in documenting authentic connections and creating images that tell your story and can be passed down for generations. My biggest goal is for you to enjoy the experience just as much as your images! I want you to be able to look back at your images years from now and feel all the love and joy from those moments all over again!
The best part of my “job”? Hands down, the people! I’ve met the most amazing souls who’ve become lifelong clients and even friends! I am truly blessed to be able to do what I love and bring joy to so many people along the way!
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I listen to a lot of audio books while I’m editing. They aren’t really photography related, but I did fall in love with a book by Mel Robbins called “The Let Them Theory”. It’s such a good book that teaches you how to shift into more of a go with the flow mindset and how to not worry about what’s out of your control. It changed my life and I highly recommend it!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tabathaobrienphotography.com
- Instagram: @tabathaobrien
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TabathaOBrienPhotography
Image Credits
Headshot by Ashley Sartain photography
