We recently connected with Braxton Craddock and have shared our conversation below.

Braxton, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s start with education – we’d love to hear your thoughts about how we can better prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career.

I personally believe the education system has a lot of flaws. But keeping it directed towards helping build a foundation for a fulfilling life & career- I’d start by including life classes that would include skills such as budgeting, loans, credit scores, & making large purchases. These are things that are vital to know as someone who is entering the adult world. I racked up a lot of debt by financing things when I was 18 and on my own and I’m still working on those things as an almost 25 year old. It’s quick to sign up for long term investments without the knowledge on how it actually effects your finances.

I’d also encourage schools, especially high school, to present different career options. I come from a school where college seemed like the only option to pursue. I went to college and it was very tough! & it’s not for everyone. There are so many other options that will provide a positive and fulfilling career! And for the people who decided college was not for them, there should be no shame or guilt for admitting that.

Braxton, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a photographer who focuses on weddings, couples/engagements, and boudoir in the Memphis area.

I am along side my clients every step of the way! From proving all needed information up front, sharing creative ideas, and then making it happen. I pride myself in not only my work, but my client experience. I want the process to be a seamless & fun time with the end result being beautiful images they’ll have forever to look back on.

I am most proud of the progress I continue to make. Investing in myself & my business that will continue to provide me with new knowledge and skills and run my business more proficiently that will benefit everyone involved,

Have you ever had to pivot?

My business really started picking up in early 2021 and I was expecting my daughter in Dec 2021. I knew that I would be taking time off to bond with my baby and heal. I didn’t know I would have to take a huge scale back long term. Being a mom/parent is a huge every day task! It takes a lot physically & mentally.

I’ve had to become very selective on the bookings I take to preserve my childcare options as well as making sure the jobs I’m accepting will be filling my cup so I stay excited about what I’m doing since I don’t get to do it as much as I once was. I still have big goals and dreams for my business but I’m okay with investing more of myself to my now 18month old and family until that time comes!

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I think one of the most rewarding aspects of being a small business owner is having referrals from people who have previously worked with me. There’s nothing like the feeling of hearing your clients telling you they enjoyed their time with you and the final products but when they got out of their way to tell someone else about your services and encourage them to book with you is unmatched! Like I said previously, I strive to provide an excellent client experience and when referrals happen I know I’ve done just that.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bpphotography901.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: Instagram.com/bpphotography901
• Facebook: Facebook.com/bpphotography901