Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Lawson

Hi Danielle, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?

I was born and raised in Gary, Indiana, where my journey as a photographer and designer began to take shape. Attending a performing arts school with a focus on art ignited my passion for creativity, particularly in drawing, which eventually paved the way for my career in design and photography.

Upon graduating from high school, I pursued my Bachelor’s degree in Art & Design at the University of Indianapolis. Here, I immersed myself in graphic design, photography, and illustrations, honing my skills and laying a solid foundation for my future endeavors. Eager to expand my knowledge and expertise, I went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Fine Arts, specializing in media designs, further solidifying my commitment to continuous growth in my craft.

Throughout my journey, I have embodied qualities such as leadership, determination, accountability, and professionalism. Despite my age, I have always strived to set high standards for myself and lead by example, embracing constructive criticism and staying focused on my goals and aspirations.

As the founder of A Natural Nerd, I bring together my creative talents and business acumen to provide top-notch design and photography services to my clients. My dedication to excellence, coupled with my genuine concern for others, sets me apart in the industry. With a mindset that prioritizes people and a resilient spirit that thrives on overcoming challenges, I continue to make my mark as a respected photographer, designer, and entrepreneur, driven by my passion and purpose in creating meaningful and impactful work.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

My journey as a business owner in a competitive field and a first-time mom has been far from a smooth road. Building and growing my business, A Natural Nerd, in a competitive industry has presented its own set of challenges. The struggle to stand out in a crowded market, attract clients, and maintain a consistent stream of income has tested my resilience and determination.

As a photographer and designer, I have faced challenges such as fierce competition, pricing pressures, and the need to constantly innovate to stay relevant and ahead of the curve. Balancing the creative aspects of my work with the demands of running a business has required careful planning, time management, and strategic decision-making.

Moreover, becoming a first-time mom added another layer of complexity to my professional journey. Juggling the responsibilities of entrepreneurship with the demands of motherhood has been a significant challenge. Finding the right balance between work and family, managing time effectively, and ensuring that both aspects of my life receive the attention they deserve has been a constant struggle.

Despite these challenges, I have embraced the difficulties as opportunities for growth and learning. Each obstacle has taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of seeking support when needed. By facing these challenges head-on and staying true to my passion and vision, I have continued to push forward, both in my career as a photographer and designer and in my role as a dedicated and loving mother.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

As a photographer and designer, my work at A Natural Nerd encompasses a blend of artistic vision, creative design, and storytelling through images. Specializing in capturing moments that evoke emotion and convey a narrative, I aim to create visual experiences that resonate with my clients and their audiences.

In photography, I focus on portrait photography, lifestyle shoots, and event coverage, using light, composition, and mood to craft compelling images that tell a story. Through graphic design, I bring a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality to projects, creating visual identities, branding materials, and illustrations that communicate the essence of a brand or concept.

I am known for my attention to detail, my ability to capture authentic moments, and my commitment to delivering high-quality work that exceeds expectations. I take pride in my versatility as a creative professional, seamlessly transitioning between photography and design to meet the diverse needs of my clients.

What I am most proud of is the relationships I have built with my clients and the impact my work has had on their lives and businesses. Seeing the joy and satisfaction on their faces when they view the final images or designs is truly rewarding and motivates me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new creative avenues.

What sets me apart from others is my passion for storytelling through visuals, my dedication to understanding my clients’ needs and preferences, and my commitment to delivering exceptional work that reflects their unique vision. I strive to go beyond the ordinary, infusing creativity and innovation into every project I undertake, and creating work that leaves a lasting impression.

What are your plans for the future?

As I look towards the future, I am excited about the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead. Since welcoming my daughter Willow into my life, I have been inspired to expand my focus on baby and children photography. I am passionate about capturing the innocence, joy, and wonder of childhood through my lens, and I look forward to creating beautiful memories for families to cherish for years to come.

One of my big plans for the future is to bring back my program on kids photography, aimed at helping children develop their skills and foster their creativity in the world of photography. I believe that nurturing young talents and providing them with the tools and guidance they need to express themselves artistically is incredibly rewarding and essential for their personal growth.

In addition to enhancing my specialization in baby and children photography, I am also exploring avenues to further diversify and expand my services. I am considering introducing new photography packages, collaborating with local businesses and organizations, and exploring innovative ways to showcase my work and reach a wider audience.

Overall, I am excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact I can make through my photography and design work. By incorporating more baby and children photography into my portfolio and reviving my kids photography program, I hope to not only capture precious moments but also inspire and empower young minds to explore their creativity and passion for photography.

Pricing:

• Studio Bronze Session: $250
• Studio Silver Session: $325
• Studio Gold Session: $400
• Maternity Session Experience: $350
• Baby Session Experience: $375

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anaturalnerd.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturalnerd_designs?igsh=MTRvdHV6Y2piaGE5cA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/naturalnerddesigns

Image Credits
Orange and Pink One Captured By: Erica Clayton

Black and White Captures By: LaCoiya Reed

Rest of the images captured by me: Danielle Lawson – A Natural Nerd