We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Abigail Thomas. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Abigail below.
Abigail , appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?
Years ago, I heard a C.S. Lewis quote that said, “My own eyes are not enough for me; I will see through those of others”, and it impacted the entire way I see photography and my business. I don’t always want to see a wedding day from my own perspective-instead, I strive to capture those in-between moments that you are seeing and cherishing. To me, capturing moments for people on the happiest days of their lives truly feels like I get the honor of being a part of their legacy. The one they will tell their children, grandchildren, family and friends for years to come. My mission in my business has always been to love my clients like they were my own family, and celebrate them choosing one another every single day in a world where we’re told to always choose ourselves.
Abigail , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I graduated from Georgia Tech in December of 2012, and I am so thankful my parents put a camera in my hands as an early graduation gift. I would force my husband onto the rooftop deck of our building and take (terrible) photos, just trying to learn my craft. I think I have always been like this-jump in feet first and figure it out along the way. I have those early clients to truly thank for trusting a girl who barely knew how to turn her camera on with their most cherished memories. Almost 14 years later, I can confidently say I’ve got the turning the camera on part down pat now! I have had the adventure of a lifetime capturing memories of families becoming one from coast-to-coast, and I truly pride myself on being there for my clients in any way that I can-be it their cheerleader, their ear to listen to, and of course their memory keeper. I have loved every single one of the incredible humans I have had the honor of working with, and so many have become dear friends. They have all shaped me into the person and business owner I am today
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I think the biggest lesson I had to unlearn was that I don’t have to be like anyone else-the craft, knowledge, and background I bring to the table will be enough for my ideal client. There are SO many incredible wedding photographers (especially here in the south), that to compete with them on a daily basis wore me out emotionally. Once I discovered there are truly enough dream clients for everyone, I was able to fully cheer on my counterparts and step into the role I’ve always wanted as a wedding photographer.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
There are so many stories that we all could share being small business owners (especially if you owned a business during 2020), but the number one thing that taught me how strong I am was becoming a mother. My two littles proved to me that no matter what, they are the legacy I am leaving behind. I want them to see my business as one filled with love, hard work, and yes…resiliency.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.athomasphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athomas_photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/athomasphotog
Image Credits
All images taken by A Thomas Photography