We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alli Diemer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alli, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with 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.
I recently took a big risk in moving to a new area of the state with my husband. We bought a house in February, I left my full-time job in social work, and I am now pursuing my business full-time. This is a scary decision, but I’ve been feeling nudged by the Lord ever since last fall that this is my next move. We weren’t even sure where we were moving to at the time. I pushed the thought away for a long time because I didn’t feel like it was realistic or logical. BUT- ever since I said “yes” in January, I’ve booked seven weddings and it’s only June! Although it’s always difficult moving to a new area, it’s also so worth it to follow God’s plan.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have always been interested in photography. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been drawn to creatively capturing moments & memories. I remember receiving my first camera when I was 9 years old. When I received my first DSLR camera from my husband in 2019, it just felt right to me. I didn’t waste any time learning the logistics and how to work my first “real” camera. From there, Covid hit while I was finishing my junior year of college. I lost both of my jobs and began to use photography as a way to pay my bills. From there, my passion for the industry has steadily grown over time. After graduating and spending 1.5 years in social work, I decided to pursue photography full-time! I am now taking on wedding & engagements and am loving every moment of it. I feel very connected to the work that I’m doing, and I absolutely adore that I can combine both social work and photography into one career. My clients are so special to me and I am grateful for each of them. Trusting me with the biggest day of their life is not something I take lightly; it is a tremendous honor for me to be able to document it!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to unlearn that other photographers are NOT my competition. It really did take a huge mindset shift for me to be comfortable with that (and am still working on)! When I first started, every photographer within a 50 mile radius I deemed as someone I needed to “do better than”. I know that’s SUPER toxic and trust me, I don’t share those same thoughts 3 years later. Recently, I have been leaning into the photographer community more than ever. It truly is SO cool to be able to plug in to a group that share the same interests & passions as you. I have made so many friends over the past couple of years, and the more I make an effort to cheer on & encourage others, the less I feel insecure & doubt my own work. Don’t get me wrong, imposter syndrome still gets the best of me sometimes- but truly, “community over competition” is worth the mindset shift. Even in a very saturated market, there is ALWAYS a photographer for every client, and there is ALWAYS a client for every photographer.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist/creative is being able to show others what I see through my eyes. I’ve always been a creative person, bouncing from one hobby to the next. But being able to capture the feelings & emotions of other people is something that is hard to describe. I love showing my clients how beautiful they are through my eyes. Not only that, but I get to give them their own memories in picture form! How cool is that!! 
Contact Info:
- Website: www.allirosephotography.com
- Instagram: @allirosephotos
- Facebook: Alli Rose Photography (@allirosephotos)
Image Credits
Alli Rose Photography