On Confidence
I spent about 5 years writing a book. Unlike Ariel’s mine is not getting published anytime soon, but we’ll get there. The first main chapter that really solidified my desire to actually write this book was about confidence and self awareness. To me, confidence is one of the most important assets we can all have in this highly competitive and often judgmental world we live in.
High school and growing up is hard. You have no clue who you are and are constantly being challenged to be something or someone. I am a very different person today than I was 15 years ago and I, like many high schoolers, lacked confidence in self and direction in life. It can be hard to decide what we’re going to do with our lives. But I have always felt that if you know yourself and find ways to expose yourself to as many people or careers as possible, you eventually find your fit. It’s a dance between what we can give and what other people want from us. You find something that affirms what you can offer the world. This journey can be fun, overwhelming and heartbreaking at times.
One of the central themes to this podcast is my desire to talk to people that have elected to devote their lives to something that lights them up. People who have found their spot where they really shine. Ariel is one of those people.
I’ve been watching Ariel for over a year now, as a photographer, capturing the essence of her high school seniors and branding clients and elevating the most radiant and human aspects of their existence. Being seen is important. We all want to be seen for who we truly are. Photos are a beautiful way to do that when done right.
Anyone with a camera can, in theory, take a photo. But it takes a special person with great skill and self-awareness to create an environment where someone feels comfortable being photographed. Ariel is the perfect person for this job. She creates an environment and energy that enables her clients to feel confident in their skin allowing her to capture their true essence, to be seen.
I love watching Ariel confidently step into her own purpose and elevate others as they seek to explore their own. Today we talk about her career path, who guided her in making certain decisions, why she’s special in her industry, finding her own confidence and what is on the horizon for her business. I highly encourage you to check out the show notes and check out Ariel’s work. She is so talented and her work is something special.
High Points:
Ariel’s trajectory in becoming a photographer
Preferred type of photography (Senior photography, branding and portraits)
How family played an important role in her deciding to become a business owner.
She didn’t have the skills. Had to seek out hands on education. Ariel believes strongly in education.
The process of her senior shoots. Discussing who they are, designing their wardrobe, discussing the “look” of their photos.
Why senior photography is the right fit for Ariel as a photographer.
Inspiring her seniors to be more confident and pulling confidence out of them.
Surrounding yourself with good people. The importance of partnerships.
Her mentor program and the development of her upcoming BOOK!
Discussing how she developed pricing and how it was a struggle early on. But got some great advice along the way.
Find information about Ariel's senior photography, branding & portrait photography, mentoring and more!