We were lucky to catch up with Shala Ford recently and have shared our conversation below.

Shala, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

That is a good question! Well, I always loved taking pictures of people – like family and friends with my phone. One year, I purchased a camera for things like family holiday photos. During the fall, I remember taking pictures of my cousin’s children. She posted them on social media and other people asked could I take pictures of them. At this point, photography was more like a fun hobby. Jan 2021, I went through a breakup (fun right), and I needed to be surrounded by positivity to keep me going. I prayed and I felt like God was telling me to pick up my camera. I decided to take a risk and filed for an LLC. Afterwards, I watched a ton of YouTube videos (YouTube University) to learn more about professional photography and steps you need to run an effective business. But, I needed more assistance. I reached out to a local photographer and paid for a day of her time to learn more about running a photography business and editing. I also asked what equipment would be needed. So, I purchased more professional equipment so I can achieve high quality photos (e.g. camera lenses, more improved camera, etc.). But the best part is, I ran into a photographer named Amber Crane. She took me under her wing free of charge which is rare. I was able to learn more about lighting, poses, business plans, etc. Shalaworks photography, LLC was officially launched in March of 2021 once I felt I was at a place to know more about how to effectively and legally run a business. I shot weddings and outdoor photography. In November of 2024, I got the keys to my studio space located in California, MD.

Shala, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, my name is Shala Ford. I am the business owner of Shalaworks Photography, LLC. I am also a Southern Maryland native and a dog mom to a wonderful Goldendoodle named Karter. When starting Shalaworks Photography, LLC, I was actually going through a tough time and needed positivity in my life. I picked up my camera and I was able to witness so many beautiful miracles. I witnessed women who could not have children conceive. I witnessed people who thought they wouldn’t find love, get engaged and married. I witnessed graduations, business growth, and so much more. Overtime, my clients’ smiles became my smile and I witnessed miracles happening in my own life. I truly feel capturing memories of people is my ministry in this season of my life. While I wait for my own heart desires to come true, I promised God I will serve the community. Shalaworks stands on the foundation of hope. I want my clients to know a lot of the milestones I am capturing for you-are things you once prayed for. That means your hope was not in vain. Shalaworks captures many types of sessions both indoor and outdoor. Our services includes maternity (my favorite), couples, engagements, birthdays, graduations, and families. I think what sets me apart from other photographers is my customer service and my approach to my craft. When someone books me, I am working with them to achieve their desired look for their session. I have a styling consultation service included in my packages. This is when I talk with the client via zoom call, phone or text and go over outfits depending on location and the season. Another thing that sets me apart from photographers is I love to think outside of the box and produce images we do not really see in our area. I love posing people, I love the artsy side of photography, and I LOVE emotional candid photos. I think that is hands down my strongest suit in photography! I am most proud of how Shalaworks is inclusive and diverse. I have all type of clients and I love how I make people feel! It is not only about the “good images”, but how people felt taking the photos. The client experience will always be my top priority. I am also very passionate empowering other people. This means, I will be your biggest hype woman behind the camera!!!

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Yes! I hope just the bit you read about me teaches you that there is nothing you cannot do with God on your side. No matter what happened, you can still create a beautiful life for yourself and dreams do in fact come true. Although I went through tough moments and doubt, I kept pushing even when life tried to keep me down. I am so transparent about this because I want the readers to know resilience builds character. That tough moments can actually lead you to beautiful destinations. I am happier and a better version of myself. I cannot express this enough! I want to empower and inspire others to go after their dreams even if they experience a “set back”. Detours and redirections will lead you to the life you always desired. Just embrace the journey and enjoy the ride. My break up when starting Shalaworks Photography, LLC was a redirection. Now, I am thriving like never before and I know beautiful things are on the horizon.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Yes! When I got my studio in November 2024, I quickly realized how much time it takes to effectively manage and run a studio space. I learned that as a business owner, I could not do everything on my own and give top service. My business has grown a lot over these 4 years. I now have an assistant who helps me with bookings/admin duties and it helped me a ton time wise. I have more time for myself and my loved ones. Also, I am able to focus more on being creative and improving the client experience which is a beautiful feeling. I am adding something new to Shalaworks soon I think my clients will love. Remember, there is always a way to overcome an obstacle and thrive while doing so. I will admit, it will not always feel great. Sometimes you will feel uncomfortable but if you stick to the process you will experience success like you never imagined. Never give up. That goes for anything in life- we just have to pivot, adapt and push for the life we want.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shalaworksphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalaworksphotography?igsh=MWNoaHJzcmdmdzBsOQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FYaD4NKxa/?mibextid=wwXIfr