Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anita Friedrich. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Anita, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

Learning my craft took over a decade. It all started back in college when I started taking photography classes. I remember, I was very excited and nervous at the same time. I did not fully understand my camera yet and all the functions but slowly week by week with our assignments I started to feel my camera not just work with it.
The true love came when I was introduced to the film photography. The old school 35mm film, and developing all our film in the dark room. This was the year when I knew I will be doing photography for the rest of my life. I got hooked on it and something just changed as I was taken photographs every day.

Knowing what I know now, there are of course I few things I would have done it differently to speed up my learning process. For instance, finding mentors sooner and not just one or two, but many. To really learnt the craft, you have to watch others doing it. Also, I wish I would have gone for more road trips in the beginning to have an adventurous approach when it comes to photography.

The most essentials skills I would say are being patient and consistent. Success does not come fast. It is a steady work of many years.

Obstacles are always there in the way, which is a great reminder to put in the work. I remember being very scared that I won’t be able to have an income as it was just a hobby. Also not to give up, I think sometimes we are the obstacles and not the actual things. But I would say the financial freedom was stopping me to learn more.

Anita, 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?

Photography has always been more than just a passion for me — it’s a way of connecting with people, telling their stories, and capturing the moments that matter most.

My journey into photography began in 2007, “almost over a decade ago” when I picked up a camera just out of curiosity. What started as a hobby quickly turned into a creative obsession. I found myself drawn to the way a single image could freeze a feeling, a glance, or a fleeting moment in time.

Eventually, I started shooting for friends and family, and with each session, I fell more in love with the craft. Word of mouth started to grow, and before long, I realized I could turn this passion into a full-time business. It hasn’t always been easy, but every step has been worth it — from late-night editing sessions to the joy of handing over a finished gallery that brings clients to tears (in the best way).

I do landscape exhibitions, and sell canvases, do portraits and many other photo projects.
One thing set me apart from others is my heritage. I carry European roots and other creativity in the way I photograph.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the trust people place in me to capture some of the most important moments of their lives — whether it’s a wedding day, a growing family, a personal milestone, or even a brand’s visual story. Photography can be incredibly intimate, and being invited into those moments is something I never take for granted.

I’m also proud of how far I’ve come — building a photography business from scratch, learning the technical and creative sides, and growing a client base that feels more like a community. Every shoot teaches me something new, and that constant growth is something I really value. My work is about more than just photos — it’s about connection. I don’t want to just show up with a camera and snap a few pretty pictures. I want to see you, understand your story, and reflect it back to you in a way that feels real, emotional, and timeless.

Today, I feel incredibly lucky to do what I love every single day. My goal with each shoot is not just to take beautiful photos, but to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience that lets your true self shine through.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Honestly, it’s been a combination of consistency, connection, and staying true to my style.

From the beginning, I made it a priority to deliver not just great photos, but a great experience. Whether it’s responding quickly to messages, guiding clients through the shoot with care, or delivering galleries on time (or early!), I’ve always believed that how you treat people is just as important as the final product.

Word of mouth has been a huge part of my growth. Happy clients have referred me to friends, family, and even strangers — and that kind of trust only comes when you show up with professionalism, passion, and a genuine heart for what you do.

Staying consistent with my editing style and brand voice has also helped me stand out. People know what to expect when they work with me: [insert qualities like “warm, natural, story-driven photos” or “clean, modern, and true-to-life edits”]. I’ve learned not to chase trends, but instead refine and own my unique style.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding part of being an artist is the ability to create something that moves people — something that makes them feel seen, remembered, or inspired. There’s nothing quite like handing someone a photo and watching their face light up because you’ve captured a version of themselves or a moment in time they didn’t even realize was so special.

As a creative, I get to turn fleeting moments into lasting memories — and that’s an incredible privilege. Every shoot is a reminder that art has the power to connect people, tell stories, and even heal.

I also love the freedom that comes with creativity — being able to constantly experiment, grow, and evolve. There’s always something new to learn, a new perspective to explore, or a fresh way to tell a story. It keeps me inspired and grounded all at once.

But more than anything, it’s about connection — to people, to emotions, to the world around me. Knowing that my work can make someone feel something… that’s what makes it all worth it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.anitafriedrich.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ani_0809

Image Credits

all images are taken by me