Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Olivia, goes by Liv McGann. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Olivia, goes by Liv, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later

If I could go back in time, I would not change a thing about my journey to finding myself as a photographer. From a young age, I’ve had a knowing that I would be an artist in some capacity. I would tell my grandma that I want to be a photographer for National Geographic when I grow up and would go to art camps instead of daycare. As I grew older, I grew away from that creative side of me. Until I started a photography Instagram as a senior in high school who had extra time as she was doing online school during that pandemic we had. What started as a reemerging interest then turned into so much more. Within a couple weeks of graduating, I found myself assistant shooting for wedding photographers in my area that I have always looked up to. I was able to observe all sorts of photography styles and choose to apply which elements work best for me. I quickly fell in love with the concept of turning memories in photos that bring you right back to the feelings of that joyful day. As my passion for photography grew, I also faced self doubt. With support, I realized that as long as I love what I am doing and I show up as my myself, the right people will find me. My journey as a photographer is also that of a self acceptance voyage. The most rewarding part of it all is that I get to help other people feel comfortable and beautiful for who they are. Photography is my hearts work, it is my greatest joy to help people feel accepted so if I can be a small part of someone else’s self acceptance journey that means so much to me. I’ve worked to cultivate a mindset of gratitude and love for each step in the process. I believe that everything happens for a reason and there is always something to learn in each step.

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.

My name is Olivia McGann but I go by Liv. I am a lifelong creative and passionate wedding photographer. My core belief is that if you feel good, you’ll look good so I am always intentional about creating an uplifting environment. I believe everyone is worthy of photos they dream about and a photographer who makes the process feel easy. I prioritize spreading confidence and hope that our photoshoots feel like a safe place come and feel beautiful as you are. My intention is to show you that you’ve always been a work of art. At weddings and elopements, I am that perfect mix of documentary photography and fine art. I love to sit back, observe and let you live in the moment while I capture all the fun. As requested, I am happy to step in and guide you through natural posing. I believe that your wedding day is completely yours. Follow valued traditions and create new traditions of your own, that choice is yours. I am just here to support and guide you through one of your happiest days. I am known for making the whole process of our photo session fun and easy. When I am not doing wedding photos, I love to get creative with senior photos and engagement photos. I am so grateful I get to witness and create art out of so many beautiful memories.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Friendships with fellow photographers has significantly impacted my entrepreneurial thinking. I feel so blessed to have 3-4 friends who are amazing and successful photographers in their own rights. When you are able to find people who want the best for you and are able to give you new perspectives you don’t see yet that is something very special. The importance of having a mindset of community and abundance helped me realize that there is no reason to compete with the other photographers around you. If you lean into being yourself and create from your heart, you are one of a kind so there is no reason so compare yourself to others. I have found so much freedom in embracing my creative individuality and that’s where I create my best work.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Once I focused on creating the best experience I can, the right clients started finding me. Word of mouth is super important in my area. If you create an experience where your clients feel comfortable and beautiful as they are, they feel so happy that they naturally share how awesome working with you is to their families and friends. I truly believe that kindness and words of affirmation go a long way. I am so grateful for all the people who spread the word about my photography experience. Taking photos can be a vulnerable experience so having a comfortable presence is of upmost importance. My goal is to help you feel beautiful in your own skin.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.livphotomi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livphotomi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livphotomi.com

Image Credits

Photo 1: Erin Leigh Imagery (second shooting for me)

Photo 2: Photos by Seana Hope (second shooting for me)

Photo 3: Erin Leigh Imagery (collaboration project with me)

Photos 4-9: photographed and edited by me, LivPhoto.