We were lucky to catch up with Hannah DeHart recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hannah, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, one thing many business owners consider is donating a percentage of sales or profits to an organization or cause. We’d love to hear your thoughts and the story behind how and why you chose the cause or organization you donate to.

A percentage of my sales are donated to Humanity and Hope. I chose this organization as I have a heart for people and for children. I was blessed to go on a trip in 2018 and see the several villages that this organization walks alongside. They don’t just “hand out” money or clothes. Humanity and Hope helps create sustainable change. They help provide education, they partner to provide clean water, they help create jobs and income for the communities. The money specifically goes towards funding education for my sponsor student, Roger. He has so many reasons to complain or live in fear, but instead he counts his blessings daily and puts his faith in God. He is devoted to his education and has his eyes set on pursuing a future to provide for himself and his family. He will be the FIRST of his family to ever receive ANY type of education and I am SO proud of him!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a Houston wedding and portrait photographer who loves providing an experience that brings joy and comfort! I specialize in wedding photography, newborn photography, and family photography. Something that sets me a part from others is how EASY time with me can be. I prepare you for your time with me through blogs & guides, I quickly befriend you : ), and I also guide you in front of the camera to help create authentic, candid moments.

Something I am most proud of when it comes to my photography, is how much I can capture who YOU are. My photos are bright, full of love, and movement. I promise to show up with an intentional heart to meet you where you are at and to create joyful moments together.

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

In late 2022, I went through an intense period of illness. I was in and out of the hospital, I lost 26 pounds within a few months, and I was barely hanging on. My business was in the busiest season yet. My faith, family, friends, and fellow photographer colleagues helped me push through to keep my business going even without me physically present. I wasn’t sure if/when I would get better, if my business would be able to continue thriving, and the list for the worries I had running through my head went on and on. I am finally healthy and functioning again and I’m so proud to say I have pushed through! Being sick for 4-5 months straight takes a toll on you personally in more ways than one, but I’m proud to say I am back on my feet & rebuilding my business and my life. Thank you Jesus for giving me this life to cherish and honor you with!

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

My side hustle did turn into my full time business, which is the CRAZIEST statement to say! When you first start, it feels like a hobby and like you have absolutely no idea what you are doing. How to even work a camera was the biggest struggle in the beginning. I have always loved photography, but never realized how much knowledge and skill goes into taking photos. It isn’t just having a “good eye” or a heart for the art. Loving photography and pictures was enough for me to become slightly obsessed with learning. I brought my camera everywhere. My roommate was my model (sorry Ash) everywhere we went, walks, vacations, in our apartment, and so on. Every morning on my way to work, I would be listening to youtube educational videos, podcasts, etc. I just wanted to LEARN and grow as much as possible.

I would say that practicing, second shooting, and having the willingness to fail in order to succeed is what got me where I am today. To this day, I never stop learning. I still see work of other amazingly talented photographers and think… “What do I LOVE about this image?” “What can I do to level up my own images?” I currently am working with a photography business coach, I continue to second shoot to see other photographer’s perspectives, and I continue my photography education. Running your own business is something you will always be “scaling up”. Lots of pivoting, growing pains, education, celebrations, and failures lead to running a successful business.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://amatophotography.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amatophotographyhou/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amatophotography.hannahdehart

Image Credits
Amato Photography (Hannah DeHart)