Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheyenne Vuchkovich.
Hi Cheyenne, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started playing with cameras when I was two years old. My great aunt and uncle used to run a studio, and they would let me use their cameras. As I continued to grow, they continued to guide me. They started taking photos for Christmas in the Park (Tuscora Park), of Santa and all the kids. They asked if I would like to help, so for years, I did the photographing while they printed for the families.
In 2022, I was finally able to purchase my own camera. I started photographing for family, and then a few friends. In 2023, I created a facebook page, and started posting there. More people began to reach out. In 2024, I felt confident enough to officially start my own business. I trademarked my name “Don’t be shy with Chey,” and really put my effort into getting more clientele. Things have grown tremendously for me since starting, and I hope they continue to grow!
I really enjoy senior sessions the most, but family sessions are right behind those! I have been a stay at home mom for the last six years, and photography has given me a hobby, and a way to contribute to my family. I love working with kids, and always try to have fun in my sessions. I like to run my sessions from posed to candid and catch moments in between.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Some of the struggles along the way would be saving up the money to purchase the first camera, and then upgrading from there. Being a stay at home parent, funds were limited. So I saved when I could, and then purchased a well used camera from market place, facebook.
I had to reteach myself a lot with cameras, as my aunt and uncle always had me shoot in auto. So learning manual was very hard. The photography community can be very unwelcoming, so finding someone to mentor you is almost impossible. I had a “friend” at the time who said she would help me, and then as my business began to grow, she became mean and competitive. We are no longer friends, sadly. Because of all of this, I am self taught, and still learn new things every day!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a photographer! I started out as a hobbyist, but would say I have moved into the professional/full-time category.
I don’t really specialize in any category. I like to cover anything from senior sessions, family, maternity, and self portraits. I would say that I love senior sessions the most though. Family sessions would be my second choice! I am a natural light photographer, with some studio work. I prefer outdoor sessions any time of the year.
I am proud of the growth I have done. Looking at my photos from where I started, to the work I am doing now, is mind blowing to me. I am also proud of my work with my clients. I have yet to have a poor session, and I pride myself in connecting with my clients, having fun, and making the overall experience enjoyable for everyone.
I think what sets me apart from others is my personality. I do my best to make the session fun, whether we’re doing poses, or more candid moments. I am always ready to climb a tree, run with you, or get in the water to get the perfect shot. I think most of my clients refer me, and come back because we connect so well during our session. I’ve had mothers who never had family photos done because their child is autistic, and they were worried about the photographer being patient enough. I’ve had families never do photos because they don’t think their child will hold still. I am a mom myself, which means I’m a mom to all kids. I treat all kids in my sessions like my own. Whether they’re autistic, wild, or whatever else. All families deserve photos, and I am willing to take my time with them to get the photos they deserve!
What makes you happy?
My family makes me incredibly happy. My children are my world. They are a huge part of why I wanted to start my business, and what helps me to grow my business. They are fun, wild, kind and full of joy which is so contagious. I take all of that and put it into my business as well.
As for the business aspect of things, my clients happiness, makes me happy. It makes my heart soar when I receive high praise and good reviews from my clients. It fills my heart with joy when we’re in the middle of the session, and I can just see the light and happiness radiating from them. It’s heart warming and I want to show the world the moments I see.
Pricing:
- Mini Sessions start at $125
- Classic Family Sessions start at $200
- Maternity Sessions start at $175
- Classic Senior Sessions start at $225
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089835468816
- Other: Find me on facebook at “Don’t be shy with Chey”
