Today we’d like to introduce you to D’ann Schaefer
Hi D’ann, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a self taught entrepreneur and photographer who has been in this creative industry for over ten years now. I have always had a passion for storytelling through photographs and began working with my parents film camera when I was a young girl. I guess I was always meant to do photography and didn’t even know it!
Not only am I a photographer, but I am also a firefighter wife, military spouse, mom of twin boys, Christian and bone marrow cancer survivor. At the age of 22, a tumor broke my back and I was rushed into the ER for immediate spinal fusion surgery. I’d have to relearn how to walk again properly and gain strength. Following surgery, I underwent numerous rounds of radiation and chemotherapy followed by two bone marrow transplants. Even though the treatments were tough, they were thankfully successful. A few years later, I got married to my now husband who stood by my side through it all.
Putting my pursuits of a nursing career aside, I decided to pick up my DSLR and began taking photos. It was a creative outlet for me as I navigated life post cancer. Little did I know, this hobby of mine would turn into a business and I would never look back. I practiced constantly and educated myself continually. I enjoyed working with clients and making the process of getting photos taken both fun and memorable. It truly felt rewarding to capture these precious moments for people—especially since I had such a different appreciation for this thing we call life.
A few years into photography and two kids later, I sadly found out my cancer had relapsed after 8 years of remission. I would once again need to undergo radiation. This would happen yet again a year later—this time more chemotherapy, radiation, three donor lymphocyte infusions and CAR-T cell transplant. The road often times felt long and exhausting, but I channeled my hardships to work “for” me rather than see them as working “against” me. My mindset became such a powerful force and I set out to really share the lessons I’ve learned throughout my journey with cancer to hopefully inspire others to live richer, more fulfilling lives.
To me, photography is so much more than snapping pictures of people. It’s a chance for me to get to really know my clients, watch their families grow and capture fleeting moments in their lives. We can never be certain how much time we have left here on earth, but the photographs will tell stories long after we are gone.
I truly feel blessed to be here doing what I love!
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?
My journey through life and my entrepreneurial shift has certainly not been a smooth ride! I have faced numerous setbacks and failures along the way. There have been moments filled with self-doubt, impostor syndrome, and fear. My health has particularly posed significant challenges throughout this journey. At just 22, I received a diagnosis of bone marrow cancer, and the prognosis was quite not great. This major roadblock altered the course of my life and set me on the path I walk today. After my diagnosis, I underwent spinal fusion surgery, had to relearn how to walk again properly, and went through multiple rounds of radiation and chemotherapy, in addition to two bone marrow transplants, three donor lymphocyte infusions, and CAR T-cell therapy. Each of these treatments tested me in every possible way—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through this experience, I discovered the vital values of resilience, determination, perseverance, and faith. I realized that both faith and fear require you to believe in what you cannot see—so remember to choose wisely.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The work I do holds immense significance for me. What distinguishes me from other photographers is my unique perspective on life through my lens, especially after my cancer diagnosis. I cherish these moments, fully aware that tomorrow is never guaranteed, and these photographs are invaluable treasures.
Each snapshot captures the essence of fleeting moments, preserving them for eternity. Through my lens, I strive to tell stories that resonate with emotions, whether it’s the joy in a child’s laughter, the serenity of a sunset, or the strength in a survivor’s eyes. My journey has taught me to find beauty in the mundane and to cherish the simple joys that life offers. Photography has become more than just a profession for me; it is a celebration of life, a way to connect with others, and a means to inspire hope and resilience. Every click of the shutter is a reminder to live fully and cherish each moment, for it is in these captured memories that we find solace and meaning.
What makes you happy?
To me, true happiness—joy— comes from things that cannot be bought. Slow mornings, time with my family, room to relax and enjoy the simplicity in life. The gentle rustle of leaves in a nearby park, the warmth of a home-cooked meal shared with loved ones, and all the laughter during a random game night—those are the real treasures that brighten our lives! It’s the little things, really, that ultimately make a happy life. These little moments show me that true happiness isn’t about things—it’s all about the heartfelt connections and unforgettable experiences that make each day shine!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elitephotographybydann.com/
- Instagram: @elitephotographybydann
- Facebook: Elite Photography by D’Ann (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090451767917)
Image Credits
Photos by Elite Photography by D’Ann