Today we’d like to introduce you to Ember Medeiros.
Hi Ember, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my wedding photography journey in 2023. It was a slow start, and I really had no idea what I was doing. It was a dream and a beginner’s camera that eventually sparked into a full-time job. I assisted other lead photographers in the DFW area, which gave me enough experience to jump into my own weddings. I posted on Instagram as much as possible and little by little gained a community. I think the thing that helped me the most was getting to know other photographers and wedding vendors. Networking goes a long way when you don’t have a huge audience. Now, nearly three years later I feel comfortable charging more premium rates because I’ve worked hard to create a brand and style that is recognizable. I leaned into my love for film photography and now shoot it almost 50% of the time.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The first year I struggled to really find my footing in my personal style. I knew where I wanted to be, but it took time to get there. It’s difficult in this day and age to set your work apart when there are so many amazing photographers already out there. It’s really easy to get into the comparison game, and instead of focusing on what makes you different, you can easily fall into the mode of trying to be someone else. I was also very nervous going into shoots and weddings. I did not have that much confidence, which probably also affected my struggles in finding my style. Confidence also affects your self-worth. It was always very difficult to feel worthy of charging more. Photography to me is an art and always was so personal. Artists tend to be very hard on themselves. You begin to doubt if people would actually pay you that much. That was definitely a hard mindset that thankfully I was able to change.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in film wedding photography. That includes destination weddings as well as local DFW events. I think I am most known for my film work and my journalistic approach to weddings. While this style and approach isn’t new, it is a smaller niche in the community. There’s a certain kind of couple that finds and admires my work. It’s not for everyone, and I’m totally okay with that. I tend to lean into the raw and real aspect of weddings. My primary goal is to capture emotion and find small moments that tell a story, rather than focusing on the typical emphasis on big moments and portraits. I also prioritize connection with my couples. I see my work as a relationship rather than a transaction.
Pricing:
- 5,000-6,000 DFW rate
- 7,000-8,000 worldwide travel rate
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emberclairephoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emberclairephoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Emberclairephoto
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@emberclairephoto
