Today we’d like to introduce you to Ginny Stephens.
Hi Ginny, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My love and interest for photography began in high school after completing a “Photography 101” course online. I was not trying to start a business, but rather, simply posting photos online that I would take of friends, family, and nature. Slowly but surely, people began asking what I would charge for a shoot. As a teenager, this income was exciting, but very much a cute little side hustle. What I did not realize is that those first few years of capturing memories began the process of creating what is currently known as Ginny Stephens Photography, LLC. Each and every year, business would grow as the word got around. Photography is now a full-time career, and in fact, it is the only job I have ever had. God has blessed this business, bringing along the sweetest clients who all turn into friends. I photograph wedding and portrait sessions all over the world, both locally and abroad. I am so grateful for the past 10-11 years of business!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, owning and operating a business has been a smooth road with a few struggles along the way. Everything falls on my shoulders, which is mostly a blessing and a little bit of a curse. I enjoy all things that come with running a company – answering inquiries, brainstorming requests, planning sessions, creating wedding timelines, making people “warm up” to the camera, executing sessions, delivering galleries, creating a relationship, managing other contracted photographers who shoot under me, and keeping up with social media & website content – all while continuing to improve, experiment with new creative ideas, and maintain a respected reputation. The curse is that if something goes wrong, it’s on me! Luckily, I have a wonderful support system in friends and family. Another struggle early on was just the reality of being a business owner at a young age. “Respect” was earned, not given. I quickly learned that I needed to truly be confident in my own work if I was going to get someone to hire/trust a 16 year old. I am now 26, and over the years, I have grown in my confidence and am proud of how I navigated things in the past.
As you know, we’re big fans of Ginny Stephens Photography, LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Over the last decade, I have had the privilege to photograph love stories, milestones, celebrations, & other precious memories for exceptional people across the globe. From the breathtaking landscapes of Germany, to the dreamy glaciers in Alaska, to even the bustling streets of New York City, I have sought to create art that will stand the test of time. In other words, my approach is to capture the true essence of a client’s experience, blurring the lines between timeless elegance & modern exploration. While you will often find me on the move throughout Europe & selected destinations, home will always be Florida. A session down the road is just as important to me as a grand destination wedding. It is the highest honor to be entrusted with the task of preserving meaningful moments, both locally & abroad.
What I am most proud of is the relationships I have built and maintained with my clients (both new and returning). Taking a photo is one thing, but making someone feel beautiful and important is another. Often times, I will photograph a high school senior, who then turns into a college graduate, who then gets engaged, who then has a wedding, then starts a family, etc. I have clients that return again and again for each of those milestones. THAT is what makes me proud – creating an experience for someone else in which they desire to experience again. And of course, I am incredibly proud of the art that has been photographed over the years.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
People are often surprised at the length of time Ginny Stephens Photography has been operating. I celebrated 10 years of business this year, and I look back on some of the very first shoots with the same amount of love as the most recents.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ginnystephens.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ginnystephensphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ginnystephensphotography
