We recently connected with Shae Rose and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Shae, thanks for joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

While I haven’t reached every goal I’ve set, I believe I’ve discovered small, but valuable keys to success: persistence, accountability, patience, creativity, and faith.

Over the years, I’ve learned some important lessons. I believe we all have a divine compass within us—it’s up to us to trust and follow it. Whenever I ignored mine out of doubt, I paid the price. I wasted time comparing myself to others, erroneously thinking it would lead to better outcomes. It didn’t. Instead, I found myself stuck in a cycle of excuses and comparisons, which led nowhere.

When you’re trapped in a mindset of victimhood and lack of accountability, you become complacent. You lose the drive to learn or create opportunities because doing so would mean taking responsibility for your own growth.

After many hard lessons, I realized the importance of preparation and using time wisely. During a busy season in photography, I felt uninspired until I embraced preparedness. There’s so much to learn that doesn’t require spending money. Don’t wait for challenges to arise—start learning now. Growth during quieter times keeps you sharp and ready for opportunities. Thanks to this mindset shift, I was able to practice with a friends, and take proactive steps rather than waiting for change.

Patience is also essential. Even when you think your efforts aren’t paying off, they are. A client watched my social media for eight months before booking—if I had quit, she might have gone elsewhere. You never know who’s watching, so always show up. In the months I wanted to give up, I focused on sharing my authentic perspective, which only required time and effort.

Lastly, commit to networking and intentional work, even if it’s unpaid. Be purposeful—don’t act out of desperation. By using your time wisely and taking action, your mindset changes. You stop seeing yourself as a victim.

While I’m not yet where I want to be, I’ve broken free from self-doubt, comparison, and victimization. I’ve gained clients, trust, accountability, and a sense of success.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My name is Shae Rose and I’m a photographer, specializing in branding, portraits, fashion, and headshots in Orlando, FL, and I’m available for travel. While I purchased my first camera in 2013, I decided to make entrepreneurial strides around the pandemic.

I am my brand, so prioritizing authenticity allows for potential clients to feel at ease, reducing the discomfort around being photographed by a stranger. I am proud to have dedicated time to improving my skills, which led me to land high-quality clients, such as Dropbox, NAMMBA, Clean Slate Initiative.

I’m also proud of practicing posing styles for all genders and stepping in front of the camera, which gives me firsthand insight into my clients’ experiences.

I want potential clients and viewers to know that this is not just pressing a button on a camera. I want to provide an elevated and fun experience while photographing life’s significant moments, while contributing to my own.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Where I am today is a testament to my resilience. This slow season has pushed me to be more creative. Without proper funding, I initially felt limited in practicing in-studio techniques. However, after a tough conversation with a friend about preparedness, I shifted my focus. I knew God wanted to show me something I lacked, and it was up to me to initiate change. I started learning Photoshop and lighting techniques through YouTube, finding ways to improve even without a studio.

I grew tired of asking other photographers about their success, realizing it always comes down to networking, practicing, and being patient. So, I decided to be open-minded and seek out volunteer opportunities that not only allowed me to network but also increased my brand visibility.

Coordinating with models and friends was challenging, so I expanded my search. Fortunately, I connected with Joseph Walker of Joseph Walker Studio, who generously offered me access to his in-home studio. This gave me an affordable and comfortable space to practice.

Instead of dwelling on the clients I didn’t have, I shifted my mindset to preparing for the ones that will come. Now, I feel more inspired and motivated to create.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Watching my personal growth unfold is the most rewarding aspect of being an artist. With this growth, I can look back and see that I’ve become more authentic, accountable, and creative. Mastering some lighting techniques provides a sense of achievement. My portfolio has become more consistent and refined as I’ve dedicated time to curating my personal style.

Another incredibly rewarding aspect is seeing clients’ faces light up when they view their photos. Their happiness and excitement are a true reflection of the work I’ve put in, and it motivates me to keep creating.

I’ve come to the end of my victimhood, which has allowed me to be more solution-oriented, curious, and focused on self-improvement.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shotbyshaerose.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaerosejpg/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shae-rose-0b0089188/
• Other: Tiktok @shotbyshaerose