We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tessa Dilley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tessa below.

Tessa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

A lot of people argue that you don’t need a college degree to be a photographer. And while I can understand the logic for many; for me, college was the launching point that lead me into full time photography work. Not primarily because of the knowledge I gained, but more so the connections I was able to attain and resources I was able to use.

My dad is an amazing entrepreneur and instilled into me from an early age, that it’s all about the people you know. So I decided to take my college career and dedicate it to making connections and learning as much as I could from other professionals.

I decided to start my business as a sophomore in college, originally to help pay off my schooling. I advertised my services to other students, knowing the connections I made would be future brides, grooms, and business owners. I also shadowed and interned wherever I could. Beyond that, I had an amazing facility at Tyler School of Arts where I could use equipment that was included within my tuition, that I never would have been able to afford just starting out.

I also attribute the future connections to the location of my school. I chose to go to college in Philadelphia, knowing that I could stay there in the future. I received my Bachelors of Fine Arts degree with a major in Photography and a minor in business from Temple University, Tyler School of Art.

Because of the time put in while in school, I was able to go full time upon graduation.

I will tell anyone, the first five year of starting a business is a GRIND and I would not recommend it for the weak of heart. I took whatever work came my way and worked crazy hours and side jobs when needed. It wasn’t until around year 6 that I was able to narrow my specialities and expand with a studio and employees.

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.

Tessa Marie Images specializes in creating an unmatched client experience, achieved by an assertive approach to each unique wedding story; in combination with creating dynamic imagery that focus on moments.

I have been photographing weddings for the past fifteen years. I began my business as a sophomore in college, with a studio based in Philadelphia and then Lancaster County. I received my Bachelors of Fine Arts from Tyler School of Art and my business minor from Temple University.

While in school, I learned sound technical ability, while being conceptually stretched in the fine arts. This training resulted in cutting-edge imagery that is unique and timeless. Today, I have photographed over 450 weddings, working with couples not only in the Lancaster and Philadelphia areas but in the surrounding states and around the world, as well.

Ten years ago (2015), I expanded to include a commercial photography department that specializes in product photography, headshots and events.

My ambition is to give each and every client an unmatched experience and I am committed to going the extra mile. I strive to deliver images that are reflective of the client’s vision and don’t just follow the status quo.

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

It has been said before, but I echo the phrase, it is all about PEOPLE. And in this money hungry, & at times-backstabbing world, having good character speaks wonders. From day one, I strived to give each and every client an amazing experience. Not based on how much they were paying me, but because they deserve good quality work. I live by the motto, everything speaks. And this goes down to the very little details. How you treat people REALLY matters.If someone is allowing me to create for them, they deserve the best experience I can give them. To this day, that is what drives me.

Beyond that, I vowed to work harder than anyone else in my field. Thankfully, I was able to spend my 20’s doing just that. I worked late nights, travelled everywhere and anywhere and went above and beyond whenever I could. Because of this, with recently becoming a mom, I can spend some time slowing down and know my business will be there when I want to fully revamp.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

When it comes to portrait and wedding photography, the most rewarding aspect is capturing the memories and the authenticity of a person. With being in the industry 15 years, I have now been contacted countless times right before a funeral. Often times, I am the last person that took a good quality photo of their loved one. It is a humbling experience and a constant reminder that memories and preserving those memories is a big deal.

I am a follower of Jesus, a Christian, and I believe every human has incredible God-given worth and dignity. Many people feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. It can bring out insecurities and fears just by bringing the camera up to my eye. I see it as a challenge every time I photograph a person to be able to talk to and encourage them in a way that allows their true, authentic self to shine. When that happens, it is magic.

In the way of commercial photography, I get so excited about executing a vision that was “stuck” in my client’s brain. I love problem solving and figuring out the right lighting to make the image just right. I love how photography continues to stretch me.

Contact Info:

• Website: TessaMarieImages.com & TessaMarieCommercial.com
• Instagram: @TessaMarieImages & @TessaMarieCommercial
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/tessamariecommercial & www.facebook.com/TessaMarieImages/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/tessadilley1215

Image Credits
Tessa Marie Images LLC