Today we’d like to introduce you to Denise Wilson.

Hi Denise, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
After 15 fulfilling years of owning and operating my home daycare, I found myself ready for a new chapter. I had initially chosen the daycare route as a way to be with my children while also contributing to our family’s income. Being my own boss and building something from the ground up was deeply rewarding, but as time passed, I realized a change was on the horizon. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit, I knew whatever came next, it had to be something that allowed me to remain self-employed.

The inspiration came from a fellow mom at my kids’ school who was a family photographer. I was captivated by her ability to capture authentic moments of love, joy, and connection between families. The beauty and emotion in her work sparked something inside me. Soon, the idea of creating that same magic for others became my next passion. Once that seed was planted, there was no turning back.

I gave myself one year to plan the transition, with a clear goal of closing my daycare and launching my family photography business. I dove headfirst into learning, starting with research on everything from camera gear to posing techniques and lighting setups. At that time, I owned a crop sensor camera, but after thorough research (and some guidance from my tech-savvy husband), I decided to invest in a full-frame Canon 6D Mark II with a 24-70mm f/2.8 lens. This was my first serious setup, and I loved every second of working with it.

To strengthen my skills, my best friend and I enrolled in an in-person DSLR course, which proved invaluable in understanding the technical aspects of photography. YouTube also became an incredible resource, where I spent countless hours learning everything from lighting to editing. Eventually, I upgraded to a mirrorless Canon R6 Mark II, but I’ll always have a soft spot for my first camera.

The best way to learn family photography is to get out there and photograph families, so I began offering free sessions to families I knew. These early experiences were the foundation of my business. While my first photos were clearly beginner-level, I felt an unmatched passion when I captured genuine family moments—laughter, connection, and warmth. I knew from the start that my business would be centered on creating a space where families could be themselves in front of the camera.

With both the technical and creative sides coming together, I focused on building the business itself. I crafted a website, developed a brand, and worked on the logistics—contracts, pricing, workflows, and more.

A year later, I officially closed my daycare and stepped fully into my new role as a family photographer, excited to capture authentic moments for families full-time!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building and sustaining a business is never a simple task. Over the years, I have experimented with various pricing structures, refined my service offerings, and adjusted how I communicate with and market to clients. I’ve also continuously worked on streamlining my organizational systems. These elements are not static—they are part of an ongoing process of refinement. One of the key lessons I’ve learned as a business owner is that this evolution is essential. To achieve long-term success, you must embrace the fact that these tasks will always require attention and adaptation.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a lifestyle family photographer, my passion lies in capturing real-life families in beautiful, natural settings. I document every stage of family life, from maternity and newborn sessions to high school graduates and beyond. My goal is to create a relaxed and comfortable environment where families can be themselves, allowing me to capture their authentic joy, love, and connection. The result is a heartwarming gallery of images that they can cherish for years to come.

Once a client books, I provide personalized guidance to ensure they get the most out of their photography experience. This includes tips on what to expect during the session and advice on how to prepare. I also offer access to a unique online styling tool to help families choose outfits that will complement the session’s aesthetic.

I have carefully scouted and selected several locations, each chosen for its beauty and ideal lighting, ensuring a stunning backdrop for every session. During the shoot, I gently guide families into natural, love-filled poses, creating moments of laughter and connection.

What I pride myself on most is my ability to help people feel at ease, which leads to capturing genuine smiles and heartfelt interactions. My ultimate goal is for clients to see the beauty in their unique family story when they view their gallery of images.

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is crafting a gallery of images that truly resonates with someone’s heart. It’s about helping them see the beauty in their family or in themselves—beauty they’ve always known existed but hadn’t quite been able to capture on their own. The fact that I get to make this dream a reality while earning a living from it is truly a dream come true.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Connecting with other female family photographers has been invaluable to my growth and development as a photographer. There’s so much to be gained from learning from women who have built successful photography businesses, and the support within this community has been truly inspiring.

One of my favorite ways to continue learning is by attending styled shootouts organized by established local family photographers. These events offer the chance to collaborate with like-minded women, observe their approaches, and find inspiration while working alongside other creatives. It’s a powerful way to sharpen my skills and continue evolving.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.denisewilsonphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denisewilsonphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denisewilsonphotos
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-wilson-3a7740291
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/denise-wilson-photography-concord
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/denisewilsonphotography/