We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amber Hudson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amber below.
Amber, appreciate you joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The idea for Wandering Free Photo and Video began as a spark of passion and creativity from my childhood. I remember being just six years old, holding a camera in my tiny hands, and feeling an incredible sense of wonder. That camera became my window to the world, allowing me to capture moments and tell stories in a way that words sometimes couldn’t. Fast forward to 2012, when I decided to turn that lifelong love into a business.
It wasn’t a spontaneous decision but rather a culmination of years of dreaming and learning. I wanted to create something that not only showcased my skills but also brought joy to others. I remember the feeling of excitement and nervousness, knowing I was about to embark on something that felt so right, yet so challenging.
The logic behind starting Wandering Free Photo and Video was simple: I wanted to offer something unique, a blend of storytelling and professional quality. There are many photographers and videographers out there, but I felt there was a gap in the market for someone who could capture the raw, genuine emotions of a moment while also providing a polished, professional product. My approach was to combine my technical skills with a heartfelt, personal touch, making each shoot an experience rather than just a service.
What got me most excited was the opportunity to solve a problem I saw many people facing. In an age where everyone has a camera on their phone, the value of truly professional photography and videography often gets overlooked. I wanted to show people the difference that a skilled eye and a dedicated heart can make. Capturing the essence of a wedding day, the laughter of a family, or the quiet moments of an elopement is something that takes more than just a good camera; it takes passion and a genuine love for storytelling.
Starting this business felt worthwhile because it allowed me to combine my passion with a purpose. I wasn’t just offering a service; I was creating memories, crafting stories, and giving people a way to relive their happiest moments. The support and positive feedback from my clients reinforced that this was the right path. Seeing their joy and satisfaction made all the hard work worth it, and it continues to fuel my drive to grow and improve every day.
Amber, 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?
Hello! I’m Amber Hudson, and I’m the heart and soul behind Wandering Free Photo and Video. Ever since I was a child, I’ve had a passion for storytelling and capturing moments. I started my business in 2020, inspired by the joy I found in holding a camera from the age of six. My journey into photography and videography was driven by this deep-rooted love for creating visual narratives that people can cherish forever.
I specialize in wedding and family photography and videography. I provide a range of services, including elopement photography, family photoshoots, and beautifully edited video stories. Whether it’s capturing the intimate moments of a wedding or the joy of a family gathering, my goal is to create timeless, heartfelt images and videos that tell a unique story.
One of the things that set me apart is my genuine connection with my clients. I believe that building a comfortable and trusting relationship is essential for capturing authentic moments. My sessions are not just about taking pictures; they’re about creating an enjoyable experience where you can be yourself. I offer wardrobe advice, answer any questions you may have, and make sure you feel confident and relaxed in front of the camera.
I also pride myself on the quality and efficiency of my service. After a family photoshoot, I provide a fully edited gallery within two weeks, allowing clients to choose their favorite images. This attention to detail and commitment to delivering beautiful results quickly is something my clients appreciate.
What I’m most proud of is the joy and satisfaction I bring to my clients. Seeing their faces light up when they receive their photos or videos is incredibly rewarding. I want my clients and followers to know that every project I take on is crafted with love and care. Your special moments are as important to me as they are to you, and I strive to ensure that each one is captured beautifully.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
One lesson I had to unlearn in my journey with Wandering Free Photo and Video was the habit of comparing my work to others. When I first started, I spent so much time looking at other photographers’ and videographers’ portfolios, feeling a mix of awe and discouragement. I would think, “Why can’t my work look like that?” or “I’ll never be that good.” It created this cycle of self-doubt and a constant feeling of not measuring up.
The turning point came when I realized that every artist has their unique style and perspective, and that’s what makes our work special. Instead of comparing, I started to focus on my growth and the joy I felt while capturing those special moments for my clients. I learned to appreciate my journey and trust that my passion and hard work would shine through. Embracing my individuality and trusting my creative voice has been incredibly liberating and has made my work more authentic and fulfilling.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Building an audience on social media for Wandering Free Photo and Video has been an incredibly rewarding journey, after a lot of hard and sometimes exhausting work. It all started with a deep passion for storytelling and a genuine love for capturing those special moments. I took every opportunity that came my way to work with amazing people, which really helped me shape the dream aesthetic I wanted for my portfolio.
One of the pivotal moments was getting the chance to shoot for Daniella Karagach and Pasha Pashkov. Their energy and grace were so inspiring, and it was an honor to capture their moments. These kinds of experiences not only enriched my portfolio but also connected me with a broader audience who appreciated my style and vision.
For anyone just starting to build their social media presence, my biggest piece of advice is to be authentic and patient. Showcase the kind of work you are passionate about and seize every opportunity to work with people who inspire you. It’s also important to engage with your audience genuinely; respond to comments, share your process, and let your personality shine through your posts. Remember, it’s not just about the number of followers but building a community that resonates with your work and supports your journey.
Stay true to your vision, and don’t be afraid to dream big – because that’s where the magic happens!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wanderingfreephotoandvideo.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderingfreephotoandvideo/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingfreephotoandvideo
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wanderingfreephotoandvideo
Image Credits
wandering free photo + video