We recently connected with Megan Thompson and have shared our conversation below.

Megan, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I believe photography is more than capturing moments—it’s about preserving stories for future generations and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.

My goal is for couples to look back on their wedding photos decades from now, sharing those cherished memories with their children and grandchildren. Perhaps those images will even inspire the next artist or photographer in their family. If my work can evoke joy, nostalgia, and a profound sense of connection, then I’ve succeeded in creating something truly meaningful.

The desire to leave a lasting impact has always been part of who I am, even before photography became my profession. Growing up with humble beginnings, I valued stability, which initially led me to a career in social services and education. I began college studying art but shifted to child development, seeking a more secure path. Yet, art and photography always called to me, even as I worked with children—a role that fulfilled one part of me but left another longing for creativity.

After graduation, I began exploring photography, teaching myself with my first camera and my grandfather’s old 35mm film equipment. Creativity runs deep in my family—two of my grandfathers shared a love for photography, and my great-grandfather was a talented painter and woodworking artist. Their influence shaped my artistic vision and inspired my drive to create something that would endure.

For much of my life, I lacked the support to feel safe pursuing my dreams. That changed when I found unwavering love and encouragement from my husband. After the birth of my son, I took the leap to pursue photography full-time. Leaving a steady career for an uncertain path was daunting, but it allowed me to fully commit to what I love: creating art that celebrates life’s most meaningful connections.

Today, I don’t just capture beautiful images—I document legacies. My hope is that the stories told through my work inspire people to cherish their relationships and embrace the power of connection. If my photos help people relive their happiest moments and pass those memories on, then I’ve achieved something far greater than myself.

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

I am Megan Thompson of Photography Avec Meg. I am a wedding photographer based in the Pacific Northwest – primarily Portland, Oregon. My photography journey began in childhood. I did not visit any new place without a disposable camera. I began taking my first wedding clients in 2012. With over ten years of experience, I have worked hard to improve my strength for using light, paying attention to detail, and capturing the story of my clients as it unfolds in front of me.

I strive to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for everyone. I am grateful for my professional experience working with children as a former elementary school teacher as it has allowed me to approach my subjects in a gentle way. My goal is to capture natural-looking photos that reflect the essence of the day by getting everyone comfortable in front of the camera.

My art is inspired by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, as well as my favorite places like France. I am also a lover of fashion, and I use these inspirations to produce an organic and sophisticated style. My storytelling style allows couples to revisit their special day again and again. I am honored to be able to capture authentic interactions and natural moments, and my ability to connect with my clients and create memories that last a lifetime is something I take great pride in. My goal is for my clients to feel beautiful and for my photos to transport them back to that day.

Photography is an integral part of my life, and I feel incredibly grateful to be able to share my love and passion for it with others. I am honored to be able to capture the beauty of my clients’ love stories in a way that they will cherish forever.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that being an artist and being a businessperson were mutually exclusive. For years, I believed these two identities couldn’t coexist. I just wanted to make art. But when I decided to pursue photography as a career, I realized I needed to reframe my thinking: art and business had to go hand in hand.

This mindset shift wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. To sustain my life as a photographer, I had to stop treating my work like a hobby and start viewing it as a business. The journey hasn’t been without challenges—learning how to run a business has been an education in itself. One of the hardest parts? Learning how to sell myself.

For example, not long ago, an acquaintance I’ve known for years mentioned they had no idea I was a photographer—despite the fact that I’ve been working professionally for 12 years! Moments like these are eye-opening. They remind me that people can’t hire me if they don’t know I exist.

Now, I’ve made it a priority to be more vocal about my work. I’m learning to (quietly, for now) shout from the rooftops: “Hey, I’m a photographer, and I’d love to work with you!”

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

Building my business has been deeply rooted in cultivating meaningful relationships within the wedding industry. As a somewhat introverted person, stepping out of my comfort zone was challenging at first, but I knew it was essential for success.

I began attending events for wedding professionals, participating in styled shoots, and making an effort to connect over coffee with other industry professionals. These opportunities have been invaluable not just for creating referral networks, but also for allowing me to recommend trusted vendors to my clients. It’s important to me that my clients have the best possible wedding experience, and I only refer vendors I have personally had positive experiences with.

My primary goal is to serve my clients with grace and professionalism, and I believe that commitment resonates with the vendors I collaborate with. Trust is the foundation of our work, and nothing builds trust better than strong, genuine relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.avecmeg.com
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/avecmeg
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photographyavecmeg/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-thompson-med-b39b4554

Image Credits

Models: Stephanie Rutan, Kendal Newport, Elizaveta Palamarchuk, and Mary Digby