Today we’d like to introduce you to Bethany Pendleton
Hi Bethany, 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 have had a camera in my hand since 2008 when my parents gave me a point and shoot for Christmas. Little did I know after college graduation in 2017 that I would want to get back into photography. I initially wanted to become a photographer to photograph the U.S. Navy Blue Angels while living in Pensacola, FL.
In 2019, after substitute teaching for a year I purchased my first DSLR and have not been able to put it down ever since. Initially, I started out by strictly being an aviation photographer. It was not until 2021 or 2022 I realized I actually love capturing people and their emotions. This led to me launching my business officially and offering wedding, portrait, and event photography.
In 2024, I finally added weddings and military events to my niches. Living on an Air Force base, I love supporting and photographing people within my community. It is amazing that people trust me to capture their retirements, promotions, change or commands, and squadron photos.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being a photographer has not been as smooth of a journey as many people think. When I launched in Florida, I had many naysayers in Florida that were not supportive. I thought they were my friends, but they ended up hating my successes and accomplishments. This led to me considering quitting at one point, but my husband helped pull me through.
In 2023, the military relocated us to New Mexico. I consider it the biggest blessing. I have been able to work alongside other amazing photographers that support one another. With moving I struggled to get my name out and through networks and connections, I have been able to slowly book more clients.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a wedding and portrait photographer based in Clovis, NM. I currently specialize in military event photography and weddings in Eastern New Mexico. I am known for aviation photography along the Gulf Coast of Florida. I am most proud of being able to pick up my business as a military spouse and relocate. Many people struggle with moving a business and keeping it in operation in a new location.
What sets me apart from others is that I am currently in graduate school for Public Administration. While I love and adore photography, having the opportunity for a professional career is important. Even if I am exclusive in the future, I want to know that I am able to provide for my family. Public Administration has taught me the business side of photography and how to grow with others. Without school, I would be lacking the knowledge needed to market the business.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
The camera you have does not matter. I see so many young creatives begging and pleading for an upgrade. The reality is that while it is useful to upgrade, it is not always necessary. I have seen beautiful work with a beginner and professional camera. If the person knows how to operate their camera properly then the results may be very similar.
Invest in lenses. They make the difference and can help achieve the dreamy photos you are seeking.
Pricing:
- Weddings: Starting at $899
- Military Events: Starting at $299
- Senior/Graduate Sessions: Starting at $349
- Portraits: Starting at $249
- Family: Starting at $349
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bethanypendletonphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bpendletonphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bpendletonphoto
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/bethanypendletonphoto/
