We were lucky to catch up with Heather Roberts recently and have shared our conversation below.
Heather, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
As an artist and creative professional, I can wholeheartedly say that I am incredibly happy with my chosen path. The journey has been filled with rewarding experiences, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the privilege of capturing and creating moments that resonate deeply with people. The freedom to express myself through photography and art, to constantly explore new ideas, and to bring my unique vision to life is something I cherish immensely.
Having held a variety of regular jobs in the past, I have a well-rounded perspective on different career paths. I worked as a histotechnician in a pathology lab, where precision and attention to detail were paramount. I also had the rewarding yet demanding roles of a nanny and a theatre painter for non-profit theatres. Before these, I worked in a grocery store and eventually became an assistant manager at a retail store. These experiences taught me valuable skills, from meticulous scientific processes to managing responsibilities in a retail environment.
These regular jobs provided me with stability and structure, which were beneficial in many ways. However, they also helped me realize that my true passion lay elsewhere. The routine and predictability of these roles sometimes felt limiting, and I often found myself yearning for a more creative and dynamic outlet. Photography and art offered me the freedom and flexibility that these conventional jobs lacked.
One of the greatest joys of being an artist is the ability to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. The gratitude and emotional connections I share with my clients are incredibly fulfilling. Whether I’m preserving cherished memories through family portraits or creating a visually captivating environment through scenic painting, the positive feedback and heartfelt appreciation from clients reaffirm my decision to pursue this path.
Moreover, the autonomy and flexibility that come with being a creative professional allow me to balance my professional life with my personal commitments as a wife and mother. This balance is crucial to my overall happiness and well-being. The ability to set my own schedule and be present for important family moments is something I deeply value.
While the path of an artist can be challenging and uncertain, it is also dynamic and profoundly rewarding. The challenges I face only serve to strengthen my resilience and drive. The satisfaction I derive from seeing my work appreciated, from overcoming obstacles, and from continually growing as an artist far outweighs the allure of a conventional job.
Reflecting on my previous roles, I am grateful for the diverse experiences and skills they provided. These jobs were important stepping stones that helped me discover and cultivate my true passion. They also give me a deeper appreciation for the freedom and creativity I now enjoy as a photographer and artist.
In conclusion, I am very happy as an artist and creative. The freedom to express my creativity, the meaningful connections I make, and the impact of my work on others’ lives bring me immense joy and fulfillment. While the idea of a regular job occasionally crosses my mind, I know that my passion for art and photography is where I truly belong. The unique blend of challenges and rewards in my artistic journey makes it a path I wouldn’t trade for anything else.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
For those who may not be familiar with my story, my name is Heather, and I’m the owner of Heather’s Photography Company, based in the charming town of Kernersville, North Carolina. My journey into the world of photography and the arts has been incredibly fulfilling and dynamic, marked by a deep passion for capturing life’s most precious moments.
My artistic roots can be traced back to my education at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), where I graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatrical Scenic Painting in 2014. This period was a pivotal and rewarding chapter in my professional journey. After graduation, I embarked on a nationwide tour, painting backdrops, props, and interior sets for theatrical productions, including contributing to Skrillex’s Halloween tour across America. This experience on the road was both challenging and exhilarating, allowing me to showcase my artistic skills on a grand scale.
Upon returning to North Carolina, I took on the comprehensive task of painting the entire set for The Prop Shop at the Kalideum Children’s Museum in Winston-Salem. Additionally, I channeled my artistic talents into creating several murals for clients’ homes and businesses. These projects allowed me to leave a lasting artistic imprint on various spaces, blending creativity with functionality.
Amidst these diverse artistic endeavors, my passion for photography began to flourish. In 2014, I introduced family photography services, balancing this creative outlet with my painting projects. I discovered a profound love for capturing moments through the lens, and this dual pursuit quickly became a source of immense joy and fulfillment. Specializing in a wide range of family-centric events, from engagements and weddings to newborn sessions and pet photography, I strive to freeze time and encapsulate the enduring beauty of these precious moments.
A significant milestone in my professional trajectory was the expansion of my services to include wedding photography. Within a single year, I adeptly captured the essence of 98 weddings. This strategic pivot not only marked a substantial growth in my business but also solidified my reputation as a sought-after wedding photographer.
In addition to wedding photography, I ventured into the realm of Real Estate Photography. Drawing on my background in Scenic Painting and Design, I bring a unique perspective to showcasing homes in their best light. Collaborating with over 30 Real Estate Agents across North Carolina has been an honor, and I’m excited about the prospect of extending this collaboration to new partners.
What sets Heather’s Photography Company apart is the combination of my diverse artistic background and my dedication to capturing genuine moments. My experiences in theatrical scenic painting and mural creation have honed my attention to detail and ability to see beauty in every setting. This unique blend of skills allows me to provide clients with photographs that are not only visually stunning but also deeply meaningful.
The problems I solve for my clients revolve around preserving their most cherished memories. Whether it’s the joy of a family celebration, the timeless beauty of a wedding, or the essence of a beloved pet, I strive to create images that resonate and tell a story. For real estate clients, I offer a keen eye for design and composition, ensuring that properties are showcased in the best possible light, which ultimately aids in their marketing efforts.
What I am most proud of is the ability to be part of my clients’ stories, capturing moments that they can treasure for a lifetime. It’s a privilege to be invited into their lives, to witness their joy, and to preserve those memories through my lens.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by a deep passion for the arts and a genuine love for photography. Every project is approached with creativity, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence. I’m excited about the creative opportunities that each new project presents and look forward to continuing to capture the beauty and joy of life’s moments.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
One of the most significant pivots in my career occurred when I transitioned from a multifaceted professional life to fully embracing my passion for photography. Before I became a full-time photographer, my career was a rich tapestry of diverse roles that each contributed to my growth and skill set.
Initially, I worked as a histotechnician at a pathology company, a role that required precision and attention to detail, skills that have proven invaluable in my photography work. Alongside this, I pursued my artistic passion by painting theatrical sets for a non-profit theatre, a creative endeavor that kept my artistic spirit alive and honed my ability to bring scenes to life. Additionally, I worked as a nanny, a role that taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of capturing fleeting moments in children’s lives.
Despite my busy schedule, I always made time for photography, a passion that I nurtured part-time while balancing my other responsibilities. It was during these years that I realized how much joy and fulfillment photography brought me. Capturing moments, whether they were family celebrations, weddings, or everyday life, became a source of immense happiness.
The pivotal moment came when I decided to take a leap of faith and turn my part-time passion into a full-time profession. This decision was not made lightly. It required a significant amount of planning, financial consideration, and the support of my loved ones. The transition from a stable job in the medical field to the unpredictable world of freelance photography was daunting, but my passion for photography and my desire to capture life’s beautiful moments propelled me forward.
One of the key turning points was when I expanded my services to include wedding photography. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and within a year, I had captured the essence of 98 weddings. This strategic pivot not only solidified my career as a photographer but also marked a period of substantial growth for my business. It was incredibly rewarding to see my dedication and hard work pay off, and it reinforced my belief that following my passion was the right choice.
Another significant pivot was my entry into Real Estate Photography. Drawing from my background in Scenic Painting and Design, I was able to offer a unique perspective in showcasing homes. Collaborating with over 30 Real Estate Agents across North Carolina was both a challenge and an honor, and it opened new avenues for my business.
These pivotal moments in my career have taught me the importance of flexibility, perseverance, and the courage to pursue one’s passion. Each role I held before becoming a full-time photographer contributed to the skills and experiences that shape my work today. Looking back, I am grateful for the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
One of the most defining moments of resilience in my journey as a photographer occurred early in my career when I was striving to transition from part-time to full-time photography. Balancing multiple jobs and roles while trying to build my photography business was a challenging and often overwhelming experience.
A particular instance that stands out was during my first year of pursuing photography full-time. I had a packed schedule, with several back-to-back photo shoots, including a major wedding event that I had been looking forward to. Just a few days before the wedding, my primary camera malfunctioned. Panic set in as I realized I didn’t have the funds readily available to replace or repair it quickly.
Instead of succumbing to the pressure, I took a step back and assessed my options. I reached out to my network of fellow photographers and explained my situation. Thankfully, one of my peers was able to lend me their backup camera for the event. I also rented additional equipment as a precaution. This situation required quick thinking, resourcefulness, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
The wedding went smoothly, and the clients were thrilled with the photos. This experience taught me the importance of having contingency plans and reinforced my confidence in handling unexpected challenges.
Another challenging period was during a particularly slow season when bookings were low. Financial pressure was mounting, and I had to find ways to sustain my business. Instead of giving up, I used this time to invest in myself and my skills. I attended workshops, updated my portfolio, and worked on marketing strategies to attract new clients. I also took on smaller projects and collaborated with other creatives to keep my momentum going.
These efforts paid off as my visibility increased, leading to more inquiries and bookings. It was a tough period, but it highlighted the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
Additionally, there was a time when I decided to explore Real Estate Photography, which required learning new techniques and understanding a different market. The initial phase was daunting, with a steep learning curve and the challenge of building a new client base. However, my determination to diversify my services and expand my business kept me going. I invested time in learning, practicing, and networking, which eventually led to successful collaborations with over 30 Real Estate Agents across North Carolina.
These experiences, filled with obstacles and uncertainties, have been crucial in shaping my resilience. They taught me that setbacks are often opportunities in disguise and that staying adaptable and resourceful can turn challenges into successes. Resilience, for me, means remaining steadfast in the face of adversity, continuously learning, and pushing forward no matter the circumstances.
This journey of overcoming challenges and staying committed to my passion has been incredibly rewarding. It has not only strengthened my resolve but also enriched my skills and broadened my perspectives, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heathersphotographycompany.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathersphotographycompany/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heathersphotographycompany
- Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heathersphotographyco