Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Hunsberger.
Hi Brianna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed photography, whether it was taking my own photos or appreciating others’ photos. It wasn’t until I was married with 3 small children when I took the leap and started my own photography business. Several months prior, I had a good friend needing a second photographer for a wedding she had booked. She asked if I would be interested and if I’d be willing to teach myself how to use her Canon Rebel t3i. I was super nervous at first but was also excited to learn something new. So, I researched for hours on how to use the camera and practiced taking photos of my kids. I also started shadowing my friend during her photo sessions and that’s what truly inspired me. I loved taking what I was learning and putting into practice. I’m a hands-on learner and it clicked quickly for me because I could quickly apply what I was researching and turn it into art. I didn’t think I could start my own business that quickly, but at the time, we were only on 1 income, and I felt that this was an opportunity I couldn’t turn away from. Fast forward to today, and it’s been almost 10 years since I started. I have learned so much and have grown leaps and bounds. I’ve learned that being able to communicate effectively along with treating clients with the upmost respect goes a long way. At the same time, setting boundaries is very important. I am only human and have the same hours in a day as everyone else. So, I have had to learn where my stopping point is. I can only take so many sessions each month and only so many weddings per year to make my life manageable. I am so thankful that God has given me the talent and work ethic to build a small business from the ground up. Because of that, I have met so many amazing people, businesses, and organizations along the way.
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 has not been a smooth road, but it has been a fruitful one. My personality is more on the introverted side, so photographing weddings has made me step out of my comfort zone, and I’ve found that I love photographing them. I’ve met so many wonderful couples and have had the privilege of capturing their maternity sessions, newborn, growing family and beyond! If I wouldn’t have taken that scary step, I would have missed out.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work tends to lean on the moody and emotive side. I love to capture the emotion in my photos. Whether it’s during a wedding day or a family session, that’s what I want to convey to my clients and audience. Can you feel what’s going on in that photo?
I mainly photograph families, children/babies, and weddings. I would say those are my specialty.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Connecting with local photographers in your area can be so helpful and encouraging. It’s hard to find a supportive group in this industry due to the competitive nature of it. I’m a big believer in community over competition. Reach out to a local photographer and ask them out for coffee to get to know them and hear their story. Once you get to know them, you could ask if they would be willing to mentor you! However, be willing to pay them for their time and experience. Seasoned photographers are a wealth of knowledge, and their time is invaluable.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.briannahunsberger.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannahunsbergerphoto
- Facebook: https://www.Facebook.com/briannahunsbergerphotography
Image Credits
J+B Bridals
Country Creek Produce
Farm Heritage Restored
Farm Goldfish Barn
