Today we’d like to introduce you to Toya Williams.
Hi Toya, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
As a young girl, I gained a deep appreciation for the art of freezing moments in time through photographs. I remember sitting with my grandparents as they looked through old photo albums, watching their faces light up while reminiscing over what seemed like simple prints. Those moments taught me just how powerful a photograph can be.
As I got older, I often found myself reaching for a camera during family gatherings, vacations, and everyday moments. Photography became a way for me to preserve memories and tell stories.
Fast forward to becoming a mom, and I was once again reminded how quickly life changes and how meaningful those little photographs become. In 2018, my husband surprised me with my first entry-level camera. From there, I began learning everything I could, slowly growing from offering free sessions for friends and family to taking on paying clients and building a business.
Like many creatives, 2020 presented its own challenges, but I wasn’t about to let that stop me. Instead, I used the time to experiment with in-home photography, practice with different lighting and subjects, and dive into the behind the scenes aspects of running a business, including website design, networking, and marketing.
Today, I am entering my eighth year as a full-time photographer, specializing in weddings, elopements, and lifestyle family sessions. I have the privilege of serving incredible clients throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Turning a lifelong passion into a career is something I never imagined would be possible, and I am incredibly grateful to every client who trusts me to preserve their memories while incorporating the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest into their story.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
While i have been incredibly blessed with amazing experiences throughout my business journey, it certainly hasn’t always been a cakewalk.
I already touched on the challenges that came with navigating a service based business during the COVID era, but one of the biggest hurdles I faced was finding confidence in myself. As an introvert by nature, stepping into a role that required me to lead, direct, and connect with people regularly pushed me far outside of my comfort zone.
I quickly realized that if I wanted my clients to feel comfortable and confident in front of my camera, I needed to show up with that same confidence behind it. That meant learning to trust my abilities, embrace uncertainty, and stop letting self doubt dictate what opportunities I pursued.
Over time, I discovered that the qualities I once viewed as weaknesses being a little goofy, awkward, and imperfect, actually helped create a better experience for my clients. Those authentic moments allowed people to relax, be themselves, and feel seen. Looking back, I learned that I was often the only thing standing in the way of my own potential, and embracing who I am ultimately became one of the greatest strengths in both my business and my client experience.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a photographer focusing on families, weddings and elopements. I take a documentary story telling approach to really provide galleries that feel authentic to my clients.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
The Vendor table podcast is one i listen to religiously, not only do they provide great honesty and tips around the wedding industry but also create an authentic atmosphere with their podcast.
Pricing:
- Family & other portrait sessions start at $225
- Weddings & elopements start at $1,500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.toyarosephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toya.rose.photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CwpUUoPW2/
