We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rachel Wroblewski a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Rachel , appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

One of the biggest risks I have taken was defiantly within the last year. I graduated with my master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and spent 2 years working at major hospital systems in my area. Unfortunately I had to take a leave to take care of my father who’s health had gone downhill. My mom passed away almost 6 years ago from ovarian cancer so it has just been him, the dog (Lila), and I. During this time of taking care of my father I realized that healthcare was not where my heart was, where my passion was. I do love and enjoy taking photos and being creative, that is my outlet. However, there is something else that my heart and passion’s desired and that was going to esthetician school. I pulled the plug and started that in September of 2024. I am so excited that I took the risk of ‘starting over’ in my career. I sometimes feel guilty because I spent a lot of money and time into getting my master’s degree, however, I still earned that degree, nobody can ever take it away from me. It is something that I can still be proud of. The biggest risk I have taken was ‘starting over’ at 27 years old with my career. I know this was the best decision I could have made for myself and my future. I am excited to see what the photographer/creative in me brings to the table for my future esthetician career as well.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I always loved taking pictures on my iPhone back in high school. I also loved my little pink Sony Cybershot digital camera as well. I always loved capturing pictures of scenery, flowers, animals, etc. For me, not taking of pictures of people is my thing. I am more into taking pictures that can be printed on canvas, metal, more towards the fine arts. My website is definitely fine art. I just have a passion for capturing unique and beautiful images. I will lay on the dirty streets of Detroit to get the shot that I can see in my head if I have to (I have done this multiple times).

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Honestly, just a new follower, or like, or someone sharing my photography profile to someone. Just knowing there are people interacting and sharing my work with others is the most rewarding aspect. Yes, sales are great, however, actually interacting and seeing I am not just doing this for no reason is the most rewarding aspect of being a artist/creative.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Share the post. Share the picture. Share the link to the website. When it comes to small business owners, solo photographers, just getting the word or picture out is important. People may just see a post or picture and just keep scrolling and think ‘eh whatever’ but just liking, sharing, etc. makes a huge difference in the artists/creatives world. You may even make them smile by just liking a picture or by sharing with friends.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.raymariephotography.com
• Instagram: @raymarie_photography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raymariephoto