We were lucky to catch up with Danielle Goodman recently and have shared our conversation below.
Danielle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
My love for photography took an unexpected turn during my maternity leave. What began as a personal curiosity quickly transformed into a professional pursuit. I immersed myself in online courses, mastering the technical intricacies of photography and advanced photo editing techniques.
Initially drawn to children’s photography, I soon realized my true passion lay elsewhere. A random YouTube video introduced me to the world of product photography, and I was instantly captivated. Armed with my first studio light, I began experimenting—my very first studio shot being a wooden spoon nestled in a spoon rest.
I gradually built my portfolio, then created a professional website showcasing my evolving craft and growing confidence. My journey started modestly: a small desk in the garage, a single light, and a reflector. Today, I’ve transformed that into a thriving home studio. I now provide high-quality product and food photography services to companies across the United States and internationally.
What began as a personal passion has blossomed into a fulfilling professional career— and I couldn’t be more proud!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a product and food photographer, which means I get to work with a wide variety of companies and brands across different industries. My specialty is capturing the essence of various products and foods through photography. I’ve had the opportunity to photograph everything from supplements and skincare products to shoes, candles, home decor, medical devices, bags, and pet products. On the food side, I’ve shot a range of items like candy, pretzels, cookies, chocolates, quesadillas, restaurant dishes, and alcoholic beverages.
In addition to product photography, I also enjoy shooting lifestyle photos that show products being used by models, as well as capturing corporate spaces and small events. This allows me to provide a more holistic visual representation for my clients.
What I think I bring to the table is a keen eye for detail and the ability to make products look appealing and inviting. I help my clients by providing high-quality images that showcase their products in the best possible light, which can be especially important in a crowded market where visual appeal can make all the difference.
One thing that really stands out to me is when clients come back to work with me again. Building long-term relationships with them is incredibly rewarding, as it shows that they value the work I do and trust me to help represent their brand.
For anyone interested in my work, I want to convey that I approach each project with a genuine passion for photography and a commitment to delivering quality images. Whether it’s a single product shot or a larger campaign, my goal is to create visuals that not only meet but exceed expectations
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
As a professional photographer, the most rewarding aspects of my creative journey are deeply interconnected and profoundly meaningful. Here is what drives my passion:
1. The Magic of Creation
There’s an indescribable thrill in creating something from absolute zero. Photography is my canvas, where I transform raw moments, light, and composition into meaningful visual narratives.
2. Transforming Client Visions into Powerful Visual Narratives
My greatest joy isn’t just taking photographs – it’s becoming a strategic partner in my clients’ success. When a business owner approaches me, I try to understand their unique story, brand’s heartbeat, and specific goals. My role is to translate their vision into compelling visual content that doesn’t just showcase the product or service, but truly connects with the target audience.
3. The Ultimate Validation: Seeing My Work Everywhere
Above all, witnessing my photographs come to life across various platforms is the pinnacle of professional satisfaction. Seeing my images on websites, social media feeds, advertisements, and glossy catalog pages – this is the ultimate reward. It’s a tangible affirmation that my artistic vision has the power to communicate, inspire, and connect with audiences far beyond the moment of capture.
Each photograph is a piece of my creative soul, immortalized and shared with the world. 📸✨
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by a deeply personal mission that intertwines my roles as both an artist and a mother:
Photography has become my medium for self-expression and fulfillment. As a mom, I found myself yearning for something that was uniquely mine—a career and a hobby that would allow me to explore my creativity beyond the boundaries of parenthood. This art form has given me a voice and a means to capture the world as I see it, while also cultivating an identity that extends beyond caregiving. It allows me to be a more well-rounded individual, embracing both my role as a mother and my passion for photography.
Another significant driving force behind my photography career is the desire to be a role model for my kids. I want them to see that their mom is not just someone who takes care of them, but also a person with her own passions, skills, and professional achievements. By building my photography business, I’m teaching them the valuable lesson that it’s possible to pursue your dreams while balancing family life. I aim to show them—through lived experience—that with dedication and hard work, you can create a life where your passion and profession align.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://danielleimagery.com
- Instagram: @danielleimagery
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danielleimagery
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielleimagery
Image Credits
Danielle Goodman