Today we’d like to introduce you to Ciera Harris.
Ciera, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I got started taking pictures in college. I purchased my first camera during my junior year at Southern Arkansas University (shoutout to my alma mater). I literally started taking pictures of EVERYTHING!!! I’m almost certain that I annoyed everyone around me. For me, life was much simpler then. I wanted to remember all of the amazing things that were happening in my life and one day look back at those memories. Facebook was also taking off at that time, and I just had to have the absolute best photos on my timeline. Now, that I think of it, most of those “high quality” images are still posted today!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
This road wasn’t disastrous, but it wasn’t necessarily smooth sailing either. Starting out, I didn’t know a thing about being an entrepreneur. My business acumen was somewhat nonexistent which in turn created some doubt and a lack of confidence. Not only that, I was quickly hit with the harsh reality that photography was more than just taking pictures and that there was so much more to learn. Early on, I wasted countless dollars just to determine what equipment worked best for my style of photography.
Fortunately, I was able to use friends and family in my hometown (Hope, Arkansas) as mock clients in order to practice and perfect my craft. Anytime there was a birthday party, baby shower, family reunion, etc. it was always “Make sure you bring your camera!” Those humbling beginnings helped me become the photographer that I am today, one who is full of humility and gratitude anytime someone even considers me for a service. I’m grateful because every obstacle mentioned served a purpose not only to my growth as an entrepreneur but also to my growth as a woman.
Ciera Harris Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I consider myself a well-rounded photographer. Although I love doing portraits, I wouldn’t say I specialize in them. I just love how they allow me to bring out the best in people. It’s an intimate experience where I get to eternalize someone’s present feeling into a moment that will last forever. It makes me proud because every time I shoot, I overcome fear. It’s almost an outer body experience or more so an alter ego. I become this brand new woman, one that even I hardly recognize. She’s fearless. Doubt and low self-esteem have no idea who she is!!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
In my opinion, success is all about perspective. When it comes to personally define my success, I’m learning to set my own standard. I refuse to allow society’s limited views to dictate how successful I am or will be. With that being said, I feel that success can be measured on one’s own terms. To me, success is not something you achieve. It’s a mindset of perpetual pursuit. It believes in a purpose–something that entices you to find that next step and seek the next opportunity. It’s starting every endeavor knowing that failure is just part of the process. For me, success is living a life of balance between my faith, my family, and my career. It’s about living in the moment and celebrating small victories. Success is realizing that the single greatest asset is not your paycheck or your home, but yourself–your morals, values, character, and competence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://capturedbyciera.pixieset.com/
- Phone: 8708262862
- Email: capturedbyciera@gmail.com
- Other: https://square.site/book/X0DWXEH8RN5R3/ciera-harris-photography-kingwood-tx
Image Credit:
Image Credits: Ciera Harris Photography
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