Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Wright.
Hi Tonya, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started like most photographers do — with a camera in one hand and a delusional amount of confidence that I could turn a hobby into a business. I’ve been a lifelong photography nerd and about a decade‑long professional, but I’m also an avid gamer. Halo’s my favorite at the moment. Since I wasn’t nearly good enough to go pro in that world, I figured I should probably fall back on something I’m actually talented at… like making people look amazing in moody coastal light.
So here I am — ten years, a few style evolutions, and a whole lot of Oregon rain later — running a business I love, doing work that feels like play, and still very much not an e‑sports champion. But hey, we can’t have it all.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest challenge was moving to a new state and essentially starting over from scratch. New market, new shooting locations, and weather patterns. It’s humbling to go from feeling established to feeling like the “new kid” again, business‑wise. But the silver lining is that I’ve found an incredible community here — peers who cheer you on, share the good spots, and make you feel like you belong.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I photograph couples — proposals, engagements, weddings, and boudoir. Posing is my superpower, and I’m really good at helping people feel confident (even the “we’re so awkward” ones). I’m most proud of creating images that feel genuine and connected. What sets me apart is the mix of direction, humor, and hype I bring to every session.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The quality that’s been most important to my success is my ability to genuinely connect with people. My clients matter to me, and I want every single one of them to leave a session feeling empowered, seen, and a little bit hyped. That connection is what makes the images — and the experience — special.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nestandlove.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nestandlove/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nestandlove
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonya-wright-932414159/
