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

Heather, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today. 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.

I am a family photographer who loves how families’ personalities come out with a little creative direction. I tell my families that the best thing they can do for their photos is to try to make everyone feel as comfortable as possible–that sometimes looks like a mismatched outfit on a child or the patience of a parent with a child who is slow to warm up. The biggest thing I can do to help a session succeed is to take the pressure off of the families and direct the session in a fun and creative way. I often give families creative prompts so that the children have something to focus on. Then I get creative and find the best images in between the official shots. In addition to beautiful images, I want families to look back on their session with fond memories. The beginning of a session is when I work to get the children invested in the session-there are so many ways to do this depending on the age and temperament, but the main goal is to help the children feel comfortable and more like themselves. I often tell children that they are actually better at taking photos than adults (wink) and truthfully when given a comfortable environment that is often the case. While the skill of photography and editing is of course important, I truly believe that the best thing a photographer can do is help the clients relax and feel confident that they are in good hands.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

I have always loved the term “joy,” and have thought way too hard about the difference between joy and happiness, what true joy means, and the power we have over the days we are given. To me, joy is a choice we offer ourselves despite our current circumstances-it is a decision to put our hope in what we know to be true despite how we feel. It’s much deeper than fleeting happiness or our mood. I often think of the verse “tears may flow through the night, but joy comes in the morning.” I often learn of families’ stories of love, lose, hope and dreams- and I am reminded that no one lives without some tears, but that we do have the option to live in joy regardless. As a family photographer, I work hard to show other’s love and care-often knowing that they may be walking through a challenging season. But that choice for them to show up and remind one another of their great love is the whole point of why I do what I do.

One of my daughter’s middle name’s is also Joy. I once asked her what she believed joy to mean, and she said the opposite of counterfeit. At first I thought perhaps she misunderstood though after hearing her much wiser explanation than I could offer, she very thoughtfully explained that joy is real and not fake. So very true!

Each day we are offered so many directions possible, though to me nothing is greater than the choice we are given each day-and I will continue to choose joy. The name Joyful Day is a reminder of that choice for myself and the families that put their trust in me.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

The best predictor of the future is the past! I am blessed to work with families year after year because they know we will have fun showing off their family resulting in quality images. Most of my families come from referrals from other clients and I have many families that I photograph their entire extended family and many friend circles. I love hearing the stories that their friends share such as- “I also have an active 2 year old and they said you were great with theirs…”, “my parents hate photo sessions, but we really want some family photos-after seeing my friends she was finally convinced,” and my favorite “I don’t know how you got those images, but wow I’m so glad you did!”

I am no miracle worker, just a patient person that knows my camera and loves having fun with people. That patience and commitment to families has helped me grow from a small business to a locally known business that has been recognized through Reader’s Choice awards, shown in local magazines, and displayed at a local art center. I look back over this growth and am so thankful for the families that put their trust in me!

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

Before my twins were born, I was an art teacher and photographed families on the side. I enjoyed both jobs for the fun interactions with people while doing something I love. After having my girls, I wanted more freedom while still doing something meaningful to me-I started small with a few families and before I knew it had grown passed what I ever dreamed of. I don’t take this success for granted and am so thankful for the families that have stood by me and helped me turn my passion into a career. When other photographers ask me how I grew, I say to keep learning and growing, find ways to get connected with local organizations and magazines, and you will see how good customer service and quality work will help you grow.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.joyfuldayphoto.com
• Instagram: @joyfuldayphoto
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/joyfuldayphotography
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits
@joyfuldayphoto