Today we’d like to introduce you to Brook Surgeon.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
When I was around 15 or 16, I became obsessed with photography. I couldn’t get enough of the editorials I saw in magazines and started trying to learn everything I could about cameras. I begged my parents to get me a “real” camera for Christmas, and I remember my mom telling me that I better not lose interest because it was so expensive. It’s so funny thinking about that now!
I definitely didn’t lose interest!
From there, photography was always a part of my life as a creative outlet. I mostly found myself documenting my life and travels, and I really started falling in love with capturing emotion and experiences. I got my degree in graphic design and kind of figured that’s where my career would lead. The path certainly wasn’t linear, but I eventually started photographing weddings and that’s where things started to click. I found that weddings were such a thrill in storytelling, but they lend so well to that editorial style that I always loved so much.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, as I’m sure most entrepreneurs can relate. Prior to being in my business full-time, I was stuck in a career that I (for the most part) hated. My schedule wasn’t conducive to booking weddings, and I barely had time to market myself anyways. When the pandemic hit, I was a part of some layoffs that took place at my company, and it really gave me the kick I needed to go all in on my business and give it everything that I had. It was terrifying along the way, and there was a lot of imposter syndrome that I felt. I remember telling all of my friends and family that I wasn’t planning to look for a new job, and I think they all thought I was crazy.
I immediately decided to invest in education and put all of my ideas and dreams into practice. I focused on creating an incredible client experience from first to last touch, and I put myself out there in every avenue I could imagine. I am so proud of how quickly I was able to build a fully booked business, and I hope someday to be able to share more of that journey with other photographers looking to grow their businesses.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an editorial wedding photographer based here in Columbus, and I document dream days and love stories for the modern couple. I’ve developed a unique style of directing that gives space for genuine and candid connection while still giving guidance to create really stunning editorial moments. My photos combine a mix of timelessness with creative and artful storytelling techniques to create photos that feel effortless and modern.
It’s been so fun to hone in on my style and approach over the last few years and really connect with couples who are looking for exactly that! I truly believe that there is the right photographer out there for everyone, and not every photographer should be right for every couple. Being able to authentically create work I love while serving my clients is what makes this job so fun!
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was always the arty, creative type. I loved singing and performing whether it was in the living room or on a stage. I was (am!) an avid reader and love a chance to curl up with a good book for hours. I think a lot of the way I was growing up still really fits my personality today. I’m definitely what some would call an extroverted introvert, and I think that works so well for what I do now!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brookmadephotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookmadephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brookmadephotography/
Image Credits
Brookmade Photography
