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

Onita, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

I wanted to make sure I was honoring the blessing that God gave me to be able to do photograph and the joy it would be to others. As I was finishing up a session with a family, I explained to them that it’s not about how much money I can make but capturing the blessings in each one of my clients. Then one of my clients said “you should call your business Captured Blessings.” I was immediately in agreement and so it was… from that day.

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

I’m a mother of two beautiful daughters who are 20 & 21. I honorably served in the Army with one deployment to Afghanistan. I believe that my discipline was developed from my time in the military and I use it in every thing that I do. Without discipline you cannot truly achieve your best.

When I was about 12 or 13 I remember asking for a camera because I wanted to take pictures of friends at school. I never thought I would pick up a camera later on in life as a business. It wasn’t until 2014 that I began to get serious about photography. I purchased a beginner level camera and started looking up videos on YouTube to learn about lighting, camera settings and tips to get the best shot.

I lacked the confidence and was afraid to ask people to pay for my services so I started offering free services so I could hone my craft and get better at it. Over a short period of time people started paying me because they felt my work was too good to be free and they began to refer me to others.

My specialty is natural light photography. When clients approach me for a photo session I always tell them that my job is not to change how they look but to Capture the Blessing of who they are and if I’m not satisfied with my own product then my job is not done. So before every session I pray over my equipment and I ask God to use my eyes so I’m able to see them the way they want to be seen. Sometimes when I’m editing, I get overwhelmed because I can see the glow around them. It’s hard to describe it in words but it’s a great feeling to know that the photos I took will be apart of a family life for generations to come. That’s truly an honor.

One thing that’s different about my business is I don’t advertise. All of my clients are referrals which is truly the BEST advertisement you can have. I believe in quality over quantity. The quality of my work is attached to my name so I ensure it’s the best I can provide.

I’m most proud of being able remain authentically me. I treat my clients with respect, kindness and compassion. There are even some jobs that I’ve turned down because I knew I couldn’t meet their needs and I’m not ashamed to tell them that.

I am blessed to Capture Blessings.

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

Honesty, compassion and integrity are what I know has gotten my business attention. Since my business is just based on referrals it’s important to possess certain qualities for growth and sustainability.

Money can be the drive for some businesses but it isn’t for me and never has been. I truly enjoy seeing my clients pleased with their experience with me. I believe if you’re honest with your clients, show compassion and you maintain your integrity despite what may seem easier then more people will want to solicit you for business.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the fact that art is subjective and not everyone will like what I do but the ones that do… those are my people. They see what I’m creating and want to be apart of it by booking me.

Another reward is when clients continue to come back for their special moments. I have a family that has been with me since 2015. I’ve taken their engagement, pre-wedding, wedding, maternity, new born, first birthday, birthdays, family sessions, graduation and anniversary photos. They refuse to go to anyone else and that is a testament of their trust and loyalty to my creativity process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://onitav.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1H6uS8DYdf/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits

Captured Blessings Photography