Maria Snider shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Maria, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
I hate to admit this but TikTok makes me lose track of time. I will open it for just “a little bit” and before I know it at least half an hour has gone by. But in my waste of time I have learned some yummy recipes, some dog training tips, makeup tips, and several useless facts.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Oh,hi! I am Maria Snider. I am a natural light photographer in the Houston area (The Woodlands). I also have been adding some off camera flash photography to my portfolio.
Most importantly, I am mom and wife. I have three boys (men). A 24 year old grad of Texas A&M, a 21 year old junior at Texas A&M, and a 14 year old freshman at TWCP. They keep me busy and grounded.
As a photographer I love to celebrate the big and not so big moments in my clients lives. From little newborns to high school seniors and beyond. I must admit that my love is in senior photography. It is so cool to see these kids grow and get ready to move on to the next step in their lives. They are full of energy and joy! And just being a little part of those moments makes me happy!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I think I have always been an artist. Since I was very young I have loved to create. At a very early age I took art classes. I have always loved to “craft”. And when I am not being creative I feel stuck. Photography is my favorite way of working my creative muscle. But I love to refinish furniture and decorate too (I don’t know how good I am at decorating but I still love it.)
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I have always been afraid to fail. It can be paralyzing. Sometimes I end up not going for something because I am afraid to fail. I know it doesn’t make sense but it happens. I have been working through it and challenging myself to try even if I fail. Trying is already winning.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The photography business has a range of photographers, both in price and experience. I always hear that cheaper photographers are under valuing our industry. I don’t think they do. They have their place in the market. Just like high end photographers have their place. The important thing is to figure out your ideal client and focus on that. Don’t focus on what anyone else is doing.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I do believe that I was born to take photos. From a very young age I loved photography. It wasn’t until I was about 32 that I really took that love and made it into a job. It took a long time to get to where I needed be. But when I am taking photos it NEVER feels like a job.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mariasniderphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariasniderphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariasniderphotography/
Image Credits
Photos taken by Maria Snider (me)
