Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Roach.
Hi Vanessa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Man, what a journey it’s been. To think that I first picked up a camera to document my own kids’ lives while we lived out of state and turning into something more is so cool!
When we moved back to Texas, my flourishing love for photography didn’t stop. I continued to photograph my own kids, and posted several “model calls” to gain experience and practice editing. I asked a friend if I could borrow her 70-200mm lens during an out-of-town baseball tournament. I posted those photos and all of a sudden had other teams asking for baseball action shots. I begged my husband to buy me the newest camera AND my own 70-200mm f/2.8 lens. He finally caved because he didn’t want to hear me anymore, haha. From there, all it took was one family to ask for family portraits.
I haven’t put down my camera since! Within the following 6 months, I dove deep into learning the ins and outs of my own camera, my lenses, and editing in photoshop. I have taken so many hours of online courses to help me grow. I’ve even had businesses and college campuses sharing my photos as well! That has been REALLY COOL! It’s only been a year and a half, but I have gained repeat clients and repeat teams for team and individual photos.
Honestly though, I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the support of my family and friends! They’re a huge reason on how I’ve gotten to where I am today! They show their support in the smallest of ways… even if it’s just liking a post or sharing a post on social media. I’m so thankful for that!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It honestly has been a pretty smooth road, and I’m really fortunate for that! I know I’m just in the beginning of things, so I don’t anticipate it will always be easy, but I’m definitely up for whatever challenges may come my way!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Hmmm, I’m not sure I’d say I specialize in anything particular, because I’m not where I’d love to be yet. I’d say my name is getting around for sports team photos and family portraits. However, I’m really proud of how quickly I’ve picked things up. It didn’t necessarily always come easy though. There have been several nights I’ve retaken a part of a course because I didn’t understand it, re-edited a photo because it wasn’t “cohesive with my brand”, or spent endless hours trying to figure out off-camera flash. So, for that… I’m pretty proud!
But, what sets me apart from others? My ability to relate! I’m a mom of 4, so I get it! I think most parents feel some hesitation going into a session, but my communication from the beginning helps ease that for them. I’m able to provide tips and tricks to get those adorable laughs and capture those genuine moments. I love just love that, and so do they!
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Don’t give up! There’s way more for myself to learn about photography, and I know it can be incredibly overwhelming, just don’t give up! Also, ask around! Not everyone will keep what they know a secret. For me, it’s about community over competition!
Pricing:
- Family Portraits start at $375
- Senior Portraits start at $625
- Sports Portraits/Banners vary in price
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fencepostsphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fenceposts_photography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fencepostsphotography
