We were lucky to catch up with Audrey Blake Calvani recently and have shared our conversation below.
Audrey Blake, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
As a photographer and a mother, I have come to deeply appreciate the fleeting nature of time. People often say that time flies and children grow up too fast, but it’s only when you’re immersed in the whirlwind of raising small children, toddlers, babies, and even tweens that you truly grasp the profound, bittersweet beauty of their growth. Amid the chaos of daily life, it was challenging to savor these moments; each day felt like a race to the finish line. This realization sparked the creation of the Bedtime Stories project.
I envisioned a lifestyle family session that diverged from the typical format, capturing the essence of a family’s bedtime routine in the most enchanting way. After engaging in a family activity—baking cupcakes, fingerpainting, or playing football—we dive into a bubble bath brimming with frothy bubbles, enhanced by bubble machines to add a touch of magic for both parents and children.
Post-bath, my favorite moments unfold as the children, clad in their cozy pajamas, settle down with their families to read books and wind down for the night. I capture these precious scenes in the child’s own room, a space that evolves with them, freezing these moments in time for future reflection and appreciation. This hybrid of orchestrated activities and genuine, spontaneous interactions is made magical with thoughtful details and extras.
The joy and connection experienced during these sessions resonate long after the photos are taken. I frequently receive heartfelt emails from parents, expressing how much these albums mean to them now that their children are in high school or heading off to college. Through the Bedtime Stories project, I aim to create timeless keepsakes that celebrate the beauty of everyday moments and the rapid, wondrous journey of childhood. My mission is to capture the fleeting, magical moments of childhood and family life. Through these unique lifestyle sessions, I blend planned activities with authentic interactions to create timeless keepsakes that celebrate the beauty, chaos, and heartwarming connections of everyday routines. My aim is to provide families with cherished memories that reflect the enchanting journey of growth, offering a window to look back on these precious times with love and appreciation. My goal is to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, freezing moments in time for generations to come and to be told that the session was “so much fun!”
Audrey Blake, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
When I was 17, I moved to New York City to attend Fordham University Lincoln Center, where I earned a BFA in Theater with a minor in Photography and Journalism. Initially, my career path seemed clear—I was pursuing acting and working in advertising. However, a surprising turn of events reshaped my future. I photographed my niece’s birthday party and gifted the images to my sister-in-law. Her friends and family were so enamored with the photos that they began asking how they could hire me. And so, my photography business was born, almost by accident.
For the past twenty years, I have dedicated myself to capturing the essence of children, families, events, weddings, newborns, and everything in between. This journey has been one of continuous learning and growth. Recognizing my strengths and weaknesses, I sought to refine my skills through workshops and eventually began teaching classes in iPhoneography and lifestyle photography for families.
What sets me apart is my boundless energy, zest for life, and deep appreciation for each family’s unique story. My goal is to ensure that every session is a joyful experience, leaving families eager to return even before they see the images. Through my lens, I strive to freeze moments in time, creating memories that families will cherish forever.
I am most proud of my work during the pandemic. In an effort to capture the unique togetherness of families under one roof, I photographed over 150 families on their front porches, infusing each session with humor and personality that reflected their distinct characters. Instead of payment, I requested donations for the local Food Bank, raising over $4,000 to support our community. This unexpectedly landed me features on CNN, the Today Show, Good Morning America, Fox News and more.
Additionally, I take great pride in my Bedtime Stories and Legacy sessions. These projects highlight the beauty in everyday moments between parents and their children, while also providing a space for grandparents and extended family to participate. These sessions allow them to share their personal histories, creating a legacy of both cherished memories and lasting images. Through these endeavors, I aim to celebrate the intricate tapestry of family life, preserving the stories and connections that make each family unique.
I want my clients and followers to know that at every shoot, my entire being is fully engaged and immersed in the moment. This is my happiest place, and the joy I derive from reflecting their lives back to them through my lens is the greatest gift I could receive. When they hire me, I want them to be confident that my passion and love for what I do will shine through in every image. My commitment to capturing their unique stories with authenticity and heart is unwavering, ensuring that each photograph is a testament to the beauty of their lives.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
A defining moment in my journey as a creative, illustrating my resilience, occurred during the peak of my career when the pandemic struck. Not only did my business come to an abrupt halt, but I also faced significant financial losses as I had to return deposits for booked weddings and family sessions. The sudden cessation of income, coupled with the loss of previously earned money, was a severe blow.
In response, I had to think quickly and adapt. After exhausting myself with the “all stooped up” porch sessions, I sought a new way to generate income and maintain my presence in the industry. This led to the creation of “virtual sessions.”
It began with a woman giving birth during a time when no one else was allowed in the room. Using an iPhone and FaceTime, I directed an appointed person, viewing the room from another angle and instructing them on when to take photos. Once the images were taken, they were sent to me for approval. If I did my job well, the setup, lighting, sharpness, and perspective were excellent. I then edited and retouched the images for the family. This innovative approach not only kept my business afloat but also showcased my ability to adapt and thrive in challenging circumstances.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I believe many factors contribute to building the reputation of a brand, but for me, consistency is paramount. The work I share on my website, blog, and social media aligns perfectly with what I deliver to clients. After all, clients hire me because they admire the work they’ve seen me produce for others. This means maintaining consistency in style, colors, the editing process, and the types of shots I take.
Most of my clients come through referrals, which I consider the highest compliment. My reputation for how I approach, conduct, and execute a photo shoot fosters joy, happiness, and positivity, creating an infectious enthusiasm. More love for everyone is a beautiful thing, and I believe that if we could extend this positivity to the entire world, it would make a profound difference!!!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.AudreyBlakePhotography.com
- Instagram: @audreyblake_
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abreheney/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audreyblakephotography/
