We recently connected with Chaunte Vaughn and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Chaunte thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

As a lifelong creative, I’ve spent years coming to the realization that photography is an ongoing journey, filled with lessons learned along the way. I began to specialize in photography in college and it was there that I learned the technical basics— how to use a camera, composition, lighting systems, and software. When I moved to New York in 2007 I was lucky enough to learn the ropes of being on set by assisting other photographers, gaining hands-on experience in dealing with clients, managing shoots, and navigating the unspoken rules of the business.
When you’re new to the professional aspects of all of this as an artist, it’s easy to focus solely on the creative elements. You get swept up in wanting to get the perfect shot. The other side of it, which is just as important, is the business side. One of my biggest regrets is not learning that part of professional photography sooner—how to manage contracts, set my rates, build a sustainable career, and make connections.
Even if you’re incredibly talented, building relationships in the industry is key. Networking is about cultivating genuine, long-term connections with other professionals.
If I could go back, I’d balance my creative skills with a stronger focus on business—and I’d probably have been a bit less awkward overall.

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

As a photographer specializing in still life, interior, and lifestyle imagery, I help brands visually communicate their story to their customers. My work isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures—it’s about creating images that solve problems and elevate a brand’s message. Every shot is crafted to convey emotion, highlight key details, and showcase the unique qualities of a product or space in a way that resonates with consumers.

For brands, my photography becomes a tool for storytelling. Whether it’s capturing the elegance of a well-designed living room or the intricate details of a product, my images work to engage potential customers, create a connection, and drive action. Essentially, I’m a visual communicator, helping brands bring their vision to life and deliver it to their audience in a way that’s clear, compelling, and visually impactful.

What I love most about this work, though, is the collaborative process. I’m fortunate to do this with a team of incredibly talented people—from stylists and designers to lighting experts and assistants. The best part is we have a great time doing it. The energy on set is always creative and inspiring, and it’s amazing to see how each person’s expertise helps elevate the final image. Together, we solve the challenges each shoot presents, making sure the final photos meet and hopefully exceed the expectations of our clients.

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

When I first moved to New York, I was lucky to land a full-time photography job at a small e-commerce company. After two years, I had worked my way up to a managerial position, but instead of shooting, I was spending my days in meetings, reporting on department progress. I felt disconnected from the creative side of the work I loved.

Then, life hit me with a wake-up call—I broke my arm while riding my bike. That moment forced me to pause and realize I wasn’t happy in my current role. Despite the security of a dependable job, I knew I couldn’t keep going like this.

It was scary, but I made the decision to leave and pursue freelancing. That leap of faith was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Freelancing has brought me back to my passion for photography, allowing me to collaborate and problem-solve in a way that I truly enjoy.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

The best source of clients for me has been word of mouth and sheer happenstance. Oddly enough, many of my jobs haven’t come from traditional photography channels. Instead, they’ve come from unexpected encounters.

I once met a woman in a Paris store while bonding over a cute jacket—and months later, she hired me to shoot for her brand. A friend from college, a talented designer, connected me to clients I’d never have met otherwise. There’s even a shop in my neighborhood I loved, so I asked if I could do a test shoot. That shoot turned into a two-year working relationship.

It’s these chance meetings and genuine connections that have shaped my career. Building a client base through serendipity has taught me that sometimes the best opportunities come when you least expect them—often in the most unlikely places.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chauntevaughn.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chauntevaughn/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chauntevaughn/