We were lucky to catch up with Clarissa Epps recently and have shared our conversation below.

Clarissa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

Claiire Photography LLC’s tagline, ‘Capturing memories that last forever,’ embodies my commitment to immortalizing the beauty, love, and authenticity of every family I have the privilege to work with. I am dedicated to creating a safe and joyful space where families unique story can be celebrated, preserved, and treasured for generations to come. I started doing photography in 2018, as a side hustle to make ends meet in college. My side hustle quickly turned into a passion for photography.

Growing up in foster care, I know firsthand the value of capturing memories of childhood and family bonds. My mother passed away on my birthday on February 27 2021, I realized that had very few pictures and videos to remember her by. These personal experiences drove my commitment to preserving the memories of others, ensuring that no one else misses out on the joy of reliving precious moments. One year after my mothers passing in February of 2022, I started Claiire Photography LLC.

Being the youngest among my mother’s 5 children, I grew up quickly. I became an aunt at age 7 and now have over 11 nieces and nephews that inspire me on a daily basis. I’ve always loved working with kids. I worked at the City of Raleigh Parks and Recreation for 5 years with adolescents from ages 5-15. Kids are drawn to my innate ability to step into their world of imagination, as I am a big kid at heart.

After starting Claiire Photography LLC, I grappled with self-doubt and comparing myself to photographers with high profile clients and wondered how I could be more like them. It wasn’t until I discovered my unique creative voice and the profound significance of preserving genuine family connections through my lens. This realization led me to continue on my journey with a mission to provide families in Raleigh, NC, and beyond with timeless, heartfelt imagery and memories.

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

I provide high quality photography and videography services. I shoot everything portraiture from family photography, special occasions such as birthdays and other events like weddings, baby showers, and gender reveals. I also do corporate headshots, brand photography and videography, commericals, interviews and more.

I am known for my hard work, quality service and my warm, clean and moody editing style. I come with great energy at every shoot and I always give it everything I have. I take my time with my work and I care about my clients. I understand that I don’t just take picture, I create memories that last forever. When clients book with me, not only are they getting amazing images and videos, they are getting an amazing experience of joy with their loved ones.

I am passionate about capturing the love that families and friends share together. Regardless of whether you love being in front of the camera or prefer to avoid it, my goal is to ensure that you feel at ease and enjoy spending time with your loved ones during your session. Through the combination of prompting and posing, we can capture memories that last forever.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

When I first started in the industry, I wanted to do everything on my own. I thought gatekeeping would propel me further than other people who were in the same industry as me. Now I know that’s not true and how valuable networking is. It’s fantastic to help others, but it’s also amazing to talk to someone who is relatable. The best advice I can give to beginners is to find someone in the position you want to be in and figure out how you can help them. I learned most of what I know from Youtube. I can’t thank the content creators up there enough. People like YC Imaging, Peter McKinnon, B&H Photo, Manny Ortiz, Javier Mercedes, and Creative Ryan. All the information you need is online but we have to be disciplined in order to take advantage of that. Stay positive, work hard, eliminate distractions, and encourage unintentional failures.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of the work I do is seeing my clients reactions. I love hearing my clients express gratitude and seeing the tears of joy.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.claiirephotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claiire_photography_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Claiirephotography
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarissaepps/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuVGegUH9W93QW_RG-x0cgQ
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuVGegUH9W93QW_RG-x0cgQ