Welcome to my “home”.

The decision to sign a lease on a family photography studio space in Batavia, N.Y. was not an easy one. I was in my 2nd year of business after moving back home from T.N. My position as a photographer in the community had not been fully established yet, and I am actually still working on that! However, I realized how difficult it was in that 1st year to offer my clientele what they were requesting during the cold and snowy winter months here in Western, N.Y. A studio space separate from my house was the only thing that made sense, so I took the plunge and it has been the best decision I have made.

The next hurdle that came my way was how I make this dingy, old industrial building feel cozy and inviting, as though it was your home! I started by painting everything, I mean, EVERYTHING white, because that’s what trendy, upscale photography studio spaces look like, right?! I used it that 1st year and I just couldn’t find my groove in there. Any setup I created just always felt like it was missing something. I wanted it to feel cozy and invited like a home, but also a space that could be used for professional family portraits. Something was missing. Finally, after much soul searching, I finally realized that it was “ME” that was missing! But, how do I go about finding “me” in my style?

I decided to reflect on the clothing I wear and the decor I have in my home, and what I realized is I love drama! I love bold, rich colors! I’m not that feminine; I don’t love lace and frills. That said, I do have floral curtains in my dining room, but I have paired them with an emerald green bar with brass handles and wooden shelves. I quickly realized that I am not that “light & airy” photographer that I was trying to be in my studio space. It was time I stopped following “the trend” and started to be me. This is the 1st year since painting the walls black that I have enjoyed being in my family photography studio. It feels just like home. My home, specifically. My Limited Edition Holiday Setup was a bit specific, but I love it, and I am so glad other families saw and loved my vision, too!

And, you know, it’s so funny to meet families at the front doors of the building my studio is located in- I immediately greet them, and I can just see their eyes whirling around inspecting every corner of the front entrance. I then bring them up the questionable elevator (that is often locked for service), and down this long, dark and cold hallway to reach my studio. All the while wondering what might be going through their minds. Usually the kiddos are pretty vocal with their opinions, but parents are not so much. I’ve heard from children, “why is it so dark in here?”, “why is the elevator so scary?”, “where are you taking us?” ETC…

Then, I open my studio door. It almost feels like I’ve opened the gates to heaven, based on the sense of calm from everyone. Which is immediately followed by a “WOW! This is not what I expected. It’s so cute in here.” I don’t know if I have ever said this, but I love hearing those words. My sister (we share this space) and I have put so much time, hard work, and money into creating a space that feels like home, and I am so grateful that the families I work with feel that, too!

Have a little looksey inside….