We recently connected with Callie and have shared our conversation below.

Callie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I feel that this question comes up quite frequently because there are so many highs and lows to owning your own business. Am I happy as a business owner? Most days, yes. I feel an overwhelming amount of joy that I can do what I love doing, interact with people who are genuinely happy to see me, create my own schedule, spend time with my family, and feel accomplished in what I’ve continued to grow. On bad days, while the thought of wanting to have a “regular” job from 9-5 and a W-2 and leaving work thoughts behind when I get home, I wouldn’t trade it for what I have now. It can sometimes feel gruelling trying to figure out how to wear so many hats all at one time, but I truly don’t believe I would find this level of happiness at a “normal” job either. This is what I do, and I’m good at it, and I hope to continue doing it until I can’t anymore.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi, I’m Callie (she/her), lead photographer at Sunrise Media Co. I focus on Colorado and destination photography, capturing authentic, meaningful moments that tell a story.

I got into photography because I’ve always been drawn to those fleeting, precious moments, the ones that slip by too quickly. Over the years, as a mom, wife, daughter, and sister, I’ve grown to appreciate just how powerful it is to preserve those memories. I love creating images that feel genuine and unposed, full of laughter, connection, and those small, uniquely-you moments.

I provide wedding and elopement photography, helping couples capture their love story in a way that is intentional and personal. What sets me apart is the level of care and attention I give. I limit the number of weddings I take each year so I can fully connect with my clients, understand their vision, and make the whole process smooth and enjoyable. The day of every wedding I remain available with an extra set of hands and a head full of experience to try and make the day the best imagineable.

I’m most proud of the relationships I build with my clients and the way my photos allow them to relive the joy, intimacy, and emotion of their day for years to come. What I want potential clients to know is that I genuinely care about their story, I prioritize their comfort, and I’m committed to creating timeless images that feel authentically them.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

The biggest pivotal moment in my business timeline was the day my daughter was born. Prior to that, I had been working 3 part-time jobs, including photography, just hoping to make it through with what we had. I didn’t particularly like my jobs outside of photography, as they didn’t bring me much fulfillment, and I was dreading having to come back to them after my leave. The day my daugher was born, I looked at her and thought, “How could I go back to that? How could I possibly take so much time away from her for something I don’t even enjoy?” I quit my other part-time jobs and decided right then and there to make photography work for me, for my family. Now, my work time is spent with good people celebrating happy things, and I can be home with my children more than I ever thought possible.

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

I think my reputation has been built on the care and attention I give to every client. I focus on creating a personal connection, understanding each couple’s vision, and making the whole process smooth and comfortable, while also remembering that they are also PEOPLE planning a huge milestone for their lives. They notice when someone genuinely cares about their story, and that trust and thoughtfulness can make the biggest difference when discussing business and experiencing the day together. Coming in with a friendly and positive attitude, offering help with situations I have experience in, being efficient and respectful of others’ time has gifted me with a positive reputation within my industry that I hope continues to flourish.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sunrisemediaco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunrisemediaco

Image Credits

Sunrise Media Co