Today we’d like to introduce you to Lacey McNiel
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I loved creating ever since I was a kid and took an interest in photography in high school. In college I would grab my camera and explore Waco with friends taking pictures just for fun. I followed photographers like We Are the Rhoads and Jimmy Chin, admiring their eye for beauty and adventure. After graduating, I signed up for a photography class in Houston where I took a deeper dive into how to use my camera. In the back of my mind I thought it would be so fun to build a photography business, but I never saw myself leaving a full-time job to take that leap. It wasn’t until I was laid off in 2023 when I realized the risk I was afraid to take was taken for me, and I had nothing left to lose. Why not start now? I had all the time in the world, so I reached out to friends who knew more than me, and said I yes to every opportunity that came up. It was so life giving to be creative! I love learning, stretching out of my comfort zone, noticing beauty, and capturing some of the most important moments in people’s lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! There are all kinds of obstacles when it comes to creative work. The main struggle I’ve had to work through is the fear of not being good enough. Thankfully, I’ve had so much encouragement from friends and mentors.
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 am a photographer who focuses on capturing people authentically during some of their most cherished moments. I focus on weddings, engagements, and other special occasions. When it comes to capturing couples, I love collaborating with them on planning a day where I tag along capturing something they would do regularly. That could range from capturing them in their kitchen making fresh orange juice, to following them to a plant store, or tagging along for a Sunday afternoon bike ride. I want to be a fly on the wall of their life so they can remember it the way they lived it.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I would say building strong relationships has played a far more important roll than luck. Most of my opportunities have come about from people’s willingness to help, saying yes to any opportunity I find, and seeking out the opportunities I want. It’s so important to create within a community that is supportive. I’ve found those who have gone before me to be eager to help, and I cannot thank them enough for their kindness!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laceymcniel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laceymcniel/
Image Credits
Lacey McNiel Photography
