We recently connected with Suvi Tory and have shared our conversation below.

Suvi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

My Mission:
Creating a transformative experience that reveals the most confident and empowered version of yourself.

The Story Behind My Mission:
My journey to this mission has been as transformative as the experiences I aim to create for my clients. For many years, I struggled to find inner peace and a sense of acceptance within myself. Life threw many curve balls my way—from working in a high-pressure corporate environment for nearly 15 years to facing serious health challenges that led to depression and eventually stepping away from that career. At a time when I doubted my own worth, I discovered photography—a passion that had always been a quiet, intrinsic part of who I am.

Everything shifted when I met the love of my life, my late husband, whose memory continues to inspire me. Moving from Finland to the United States to be with him marked the beginning of a powerful new chapter in my life. In this unfamiliar and challenging environment, I found solace and a renewed sense of purpose behind the lens. At 50, when many might think it’s too late for change, I embraced photography wholeheartedly. What started as a simple way to capture family moments soon evolved into a profound calling.

I was drawn particularly to portrait photography because it allowed me to connect with people on a deeply personal level. I realized that every individual possesses a unique beauty and strength, even if they can’t always see it themselves. Photography gave me the power to reveal that hidden confidence and empowerment—not just for me, but for everyone I have the privilege to work with. This mission is not just a business goal; it’s a heartfelt promise. I believe that by capturing these “pearl moments,” I can help others see their true, empowered selves, much like how photography transformed my own life.

Suvi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Suvi Tory, the heart and soul behind Suvi Tory Photography. As a mom to two incredible sons and a proud grandmother to three adorable grandchildren, I’ve embraced a fulfilling, single-woman life filled with big dreams and boundless passion. My journey into photography was born from a deeply personal transformation. After spending nearly 15 years in the corporate world—and facing a health crisis that forced me to reevaluate my life—I discovered that my true passion lay in capturing life’s authentic moments. Photography became my sanctuary and a medium through which I could reclaim my confidence.

At Suvi Tory Photography, I specialize in creating an experience that transforms the intimidating act of being photographed into an unforgettable adventure. My services are thoughtfully designed for everyday women, men, families, and high school seniors who deserve to feel like the ‘model of the day.’ I’ve tailored every step of the process—from the initial consultation to expert posing and creative direction—so that my clients know exactly what to expect and can relax into the experience. No one needs prior modeling experience here; I guide every session with warmth, humor, and a clear vision to ensure that each person leaves feeling empowered and radiant.

What sets me apart is not just my technical expertise, but the heartfelt commitment to making each photoshoot a transformative, personalized journey. I’m proud of the way I can help people see the beauty and strength within themselves—a beauty that often goes unnoticed in the rush of everyday life. My mission is to create not just beautiful images, but a space where my clients can rediscover their confidence and feel truly celebrated.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

Back in 2019, my creative journey took an exciting turn when Nicole Saveedra, a talented hair and makeup artist from ncstylingandspa.com, reached out to me about a collaboration. I was immediately drawn to her innovative business concept, the exceptional quality of her work, and her commitment to growth and learning. Our visions aligned perfectly, and from that first conversation, I knew we were meant to work together.

Over time, our connection grew both professionally and personally. Today, we share a collaborative space in my studio, where my clients enjoy seamless access to Nicole’s salon services. They love her, and I trust her completely—her work fits my brand in every way. It’s been an incredible journey filled with creativity, trust, and mutual respect, and I’m grateful for the fruitful partnership that continues to enrich my business and elevate the experience for everyone we serve.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Wow, this is a hard one. As a small business owner, you really wear many hats, and staying on top of every aspect is essential. One strategy that’s been particularly effective for my growing business has been investing in my own education—especially when it comes to digital marketing. I recently enrolled in a digital marketing course, and it’s been a game-changer given how crucial a digital presence is today.

I get a lot of clients from referrals, which is absolutely fabulous, but like I said, it’s not always enough. You need to stay on top of trends—and they change rapidly. I know that simply posting on social media daily isn’t the full picture of marketing, but it’s a vital part of staying current. The course has helped me understand the evolving landscape, allowing me to adapt my strategies and connect with my audience more effectively. It’s challenging at times, but this continuous investment in learning and adapting has been key to keeping my brand fresh, relevant, and engaging for my clients.

Contact Info:

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

Image Credits

Paris photo: Red Door Pictures, Inc

Studio shots of me: Nicole Christine Styling