Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Lui.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The first time I picked up a DSLR camera was a year into my move to the U.S. I had no idea what photography was, but I loved it. I took landscape photos when I traveled, and I dreamed that one day I would be a travel photographer. But being a photographer completely slipped my mind until I started college. When I joined the university newspaper as a staff photographer, my passion reignited. At that time, I was doing mainly sports and portrait photography for the paper, and I was constantly on assignment. I realize how much fun I have photographing all these events that I would always try to pick up more assignments even when I have seven papers due for class. My major is completely irrelevant to photography, and I couldn’t imagine photography would eventually become such a huge part of my life. I really enjoyed the connection with people when I took photos of them and therefore decided to try and start shooting photography professionally. I owe a lot of my success to my friends who have been very encouraging. They were my guinea pigs when I started out, and they also eventually entrusted me to take engagements and wedding photos. While I started out primarily doing senior portraits, after doing some couple’s sessions and weddings, I realized that is where my passion lies. I enjoy seeing the happiness and love between people and their families. Since then, I’ve branched out into the wedding industry, and I met so many inspiring photographers and vendors that this has become my happy place. I never would have dreamed that my business would take off so fast, but I’m so grateful for the experience and I strive to keep growing.
Has it been a smooth road?
There were a lot of struggles, trial and error, and I am still figuring out new things as I go, but I love doing what I do! One of the biggest challenges I have is thinking that I’m not good enough for clients. I’m sure it’s something a lot of creatives struggle with as well. However, I’ve learned that I’m my own biggest critic, and while it pushes me to improve every day, I also need to give myself a break now and then to see how far I’ve come. The community of photographer and creatives allow me to connect with others in the same boat, and it really helps when I’m hit with an obstacle to have such a strong network of support. Some other challenges I have pertaining to the business/marketing side of things. Photography is my passion. I don’t have a single clue about business or marketing! I’ve really learned to ask for help and utilize resources available to me to get over the hurdle.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Annie Lui Photography specializes in natural light wedding, engagement and portrait photography. A lot of people come to me for my bright and airy editing style, and I’ve had many people ask if I use a certain preset or filter for my images. I always feel so proud to say that I developed my own style, and I edit each photo individually to perfect them! I love the fact that my job is to freeze time. I love telling a story through photography and allowing people to treasure such authentic moments forever! While I’m an introvert, a huge part of the photography industry that I love is the people to people connection. I want my clients to have an amazing experience before, during, and after their session. I do my very best to approach my clients in a personal way so that I’m not only a photographer but a friend as well.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Houston has a huge population and there is always a need for good photographers. While the photography industry here is saturated, the network is also incredibly supportive from what I’ve seen. I think that if you have your heart in photography, you should go for it! The simple fact that you love what you do will shine through, and clients always love a passionate photographer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.annieluiphotography.com
- Email: annieluiphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/annieluiphotography
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/annieluiphotography
Image Credit:
Headshot by Carissa Cambria Photography (edited by myself)
All other photos by Annie Lui Photography
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