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

Hi Deanna, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with talking about how you serve the underserved, because in our view this is one of the most important things the small business community does for society – by serving those who the giant corporations ignore, small business helps create a more inclusive and just world for all of us.

Capturing Memories, Serving Dreams: A Commitment to an Underserved Community

In the heart of my vibrant community, I recognize the importance of giving back to those who need it most. At Deanna Marie Photography, I have made it my mission to serve an underserved community in a way that combines my passion for photography with my commitment to making a positive impact. Hopefully, my story is one of capturing memories, serving dreams, and providing support to those who may not otherwise have access to high-quality photography services.

The Community in Need:
My community is a diverse tapestry of dreams and aspirations, where high school seniors are on the cusp of embarking on their journeys into the world. However, not all of them have the resources to commemorate this pivotal moment in their lives with professional photography. The cost of hiring a photographer can be prohibitive for many, leaving some students without the cherished memories they deserve. This disparity struck a chord with me, and I felt compelled to take action.

My Commitment to High School Seniors:
Every year, I pledge to provide free photography services to up to five high school seniors who may not have the means to afford professional photos. Through this initiative, I aim to ensure that every graduating senior in our community can capture the essence of this important chapter in their lives. It’s about preserving memories that will be cherished for a lifetime, regardless of one’s financial situation.

The Impact:
My story is not just about capturing moments; it’s about capturing dreams. When I offer our services to underserved high school seniors, I witness the transformation in their confidence and self-esteem. The simple act of having professional photos taken can boost their morale and motivate them to pursue their dreams with greater enthusiasm.

Capturing the Community’s Spirit:
In addition to serving high school seniors, I also make it a point to attend as many community activities and sporting events as possible. I am passionate about documenting the spirit, unity, and resilience of our community through photography. These photos are then made available online for everyone to access free of charge.

By sharing these images, I aim to connect my community, highlighting its strengths, achievements, and the bonds that tie us together. It’s my way of giving back and showing our gratitude for the support I receive.

At Deanna Marie Photography, my commitment to serving an underserved community through photography goes beyond the lens. It’s about empowering high school seniors to chase their dreams, and it’s about celebrating the vibrant spirit of our community. I believe that by capturing moments, I am capturing the essence of our community’s heart and soul. It is an honor to be part of this journey, and I look forward to continuing to serve my community with the same passion and dedication in the years to come. I hope to create memories, uplift dreams, and strengthen the bonds that make my community exceptional.

Deanna, 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?

My name is Deanna Bartlett, and I’m the founder and creative force behind Deanna Marie Photography. I’d like to take you on a journey through my story, the services I offer, and what sets me apart from others in this dynamic field.

**My Path to Photography:**
My adventure in photography began like many great stories, with a deep passion and a humble start. It all kicked off when I started taking photos of my own children during their sporting events. The thrill of capturing those intense moments on the field, the joy of victory, and the camaraderie among teammates fueled my love for photography. Little did I know that this simple act would eventually evolve into something much more profound.

**Growth and Evolution:**
As the years went by, my photography hobby blossomed into a business. In 2011, two parents approached me with a special request – to take senior portraits of their son. This was a turning point in my journey. Those initial senior portrait sessions not only brought me immense joy but also marked the beginning of my venture into professional photography.

Since then, Deanna Marie Photography has gradually expanded its horizons. Today, my services encompass a wide range of photography offerings, including weddings, family portraits, and professional headshots. I am dedicated to capturing the essence of life’s most beautiful moments, preserving memories that will last a lifetime.

**Solving Problems and Setting Apart:**
In my line of work, I see myself as a problem solver and a memory maker. I understand that every client has unique needs and desires, whether it’s the nervous excitement of a bride and groom on their wedding day or the genuine laughter of a family during a portrait session. My goal is to translate these emotions into timeless, captivating images.

What sets me apart is my passion for sports photography. I’m not content with merely snapping pictures; I immerse myself in the atmosphere of local sporting events, capturing the energy, intensity, and spirit of the games. This love for sports photography allows me to provide a perspective that few others can offer.

**What I’m Most Proud Of:**
As I reflect on my journey, I am most proud of the connections I’ve forged with my clients. Each click of my camera has not only produced beautiful images but also lasting relationships. It’s the trust and confidence my clients place in me that fuel my creative fire and drive me to constantly push the boundaries of my craft.

**What I Want You to Know:**
To potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that I am not just a photographer; I’m a storyteller. Through my lens, I craft narratives that celebrate life’s moments, both big and small. I’m committed to delivering not just photographs but cherished memories that will fill your heart with warmth for years to come.

Deanna Marie Photography is a reflection of my dedication, creativity, and unwavering love for photography.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Certainly! I’m excited to share my journey with you and talk about my goal to eventually retire from my career as a paralegal and pursue photography full time, thus allowing me to expand my photography services and create even more lasting memories for others to cherish for a lifetime.

**A Second Act in Photography:**
Retiring from my paralegal career to focus on photography full time feels like a second act in life and it’s a next step that I’m very excited about taking. It’s about redefining my identity, priorities, and purpose. It’s about pursuing what genuinely lights up my world.

**Challenges and Opportunities:**
I won’t sugarcoat it; this transition will not be without its challenges. The road to full-time photography will be uncertain, with financial considerations and the need for consistent effort to establish my photography business. However, it’s also an incredible opportunity to dive deep into my craft, improve my skills, and explore creative avenues that I might not have had the time for previously.

**My Unique Perspective:**
One of the advantages I bring to my photography career is the discipline and attention to detail I cultivated during my time as a paralegal. These skills are proving to be valuable in managing my photography business, ensuring professionalism, and delivering high-quality service to my clients.

**Creating a Legacy:**
Through this transition, I’m not just pursuing a personal dream; I’m creating a legacy. My photographs will capture moments that matter and leave a lasting impact on the lives of my clients. I hope my work will inspire others to follow their passions and dreams.

**A Fulfilling Retirement:**
Hopefully, retiring from my paralegal career to follow my love for photography will promise a more fulfilling retirement than I could have imagined. Instead of a quiet retirement, I’ll be embarking on a vibrant, creative, and purpose-driven chapter of my life.

In conclusion, my goal to retire from my career as a paralegal and pursue photography full-time is a courageous and inspiring choice. It represents my commitment to personal growth, creativity, and the pursuit of happiness. This transition isn’t just about changing careers; it’s about embracing a new way of life and leaving a meaningful mark through my art. My journey from paralegal to photographer is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing the pursuit of a life well-lived. Thank you for being part of this exciting chapter with me.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

My journey in building a social media presence started organically, driven by my passion for photography and my desire to connect with my community. Initially, I began by regularly sharing the photos I took at various events in my community. These included local sports games, cultural festivals, and community gatherings. I was captivated by the idea of not just taking photos but also sharing the moments and stories behind them.

As I shared these photos on social media platforms, I noticed something remarkable happening. People in my community began to engage with my content, sharing their own memories and stories in response to my photographs. This interaction created a sense of community and belonging that extended beyond the physical events themselves.

Over time, this engaged and supportive online community became a solid foundation for my photography business. Many of those who had followed my journey on social media became clients, entrusting me to capture their special moments. They had seen my dedication, my eye for detail, and the genuine passion I had for photography through my online presence.

For those just starting to build their social media presence, I would offer the following advice:

1. **Be Consistent:** Consistency is key. Regularly share content that reflects your passion and expertise. Whether it’s photography, art, or any other field, consistency helps to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.

2. **Engage and Connect:** Social media is a two-way street. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages, and actively seek to connect with others in your niche or community.

3. **Tell Your Story:** Share your journey, your process, and the stories behind your work. Authenticity resonates with audiences and creates a deeper connection.

4. **Quality Over Quantity:** It’s not about how often you post, but the quality of what you share. High-quality, meaningful content will have a more significant impact than frequent but shallow posts.

5. **Use Hashtags and Tags:** Utilize relevant hashtags and tags to reach a broader audience interested in your niche or field.

6. **Collaborate:** Consider collaborations with other creators or businesses in your community. Cross-promotion can help you reach new audiences.

7. **Patience and Persistence:** Building a social media presence takes time. Be patient, stay persistent, and stay true to your passion and vision.

My social media journey began with a genuine passion for photography and a desire to share the moments I captured with my community. This organic approach not only created a loyal following but also became the foundation for my photography business. For those looking to build their social media presence, remember that authenticity, engagement, and consistency are key. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about building a community that shares your passion and supports your journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://deannabartlett.smugmug.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deanna.mariephotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deannamariepics
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-bartlett-1b8a7847/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/deannamb33

Image Credits
Deanna Marie Photography