Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle George
Hi Danielle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was always a daydreamer with a creative mind. I loved imagining stories and moments, and photography became my way of bringing those ideas to life. I’ve been practicing photography for years, however last year I made what some might call a reckless decision…I quit my full-time job to pursue my dream of working for myself, doing something I truly love. It was SO scary, but it was also the best (and most courageous) thing I’ve ever done. Building my photography business hasn’t just been about chasing a passion; it’s given me the freedom to spend more time with my family. I’ve been able to homeschool my kids, enjoy slow mornings together, and create a life that feels more intentional and fulfilling. HUGE shoutout to my husband for supporting my dream giving me the confidence and space to reinvent myself.
My journey into photography has been about so much more than taking pictures—it’s been about rediscovering myself and slowly building something meaningful from the ground up. My photography focuses primarily on portraits—families, couples, and engagements. I’ve discovered that I’m truly a romantic at heart, and photographing weddings has quickly become one of my favorite things to do. Another, perhaps unexpected, passion of mine is capturing motorcycles and cars. Coming from a family of bikers, and being taught to ride, it really opened my eyes to the dynamic energy, artistry, power, and sense of freedom these machines embody, and I love bringing that to life.
While most of this journey has been my love for photography, it’s also about resilience. As a wife and a mom to two amazing boys, I found myself getting lost in the day-to-day routine of taking care of everyone else. I love my family, but I felt like I’d forgotten who I was. That’s when I realized I needed to do something for myself—to find that spark again. Starting my photography business gave me that. It wasn’t just about doing something I loved; it was about finding “me” and creating something that was truly my own. And now I have Cinder Photography.
Cinder: \ˈsin-dər\ (n): a small piece of partly burned coal or wood that has stopped giving off flames but still has combustible matter in it. I feel like so many can relate to that. Just like cinder is what’s left of something that once burned bright, we’ve all faced challenges that tested our strength. But through it all, we’ve found a way to keep our inner fire burning. My story is in the name.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh goodness, it has not been smooth sailing at all. I was told once that as a photographer you will find that learning some things the “hard way”, is the only way. Taking photos is easy, and what I am good at. Running a business I found that not only do I get to be a photographer, I am now my own marketing team, customer service representative, social media specialist (term used loosely), receptionist, and accountant. I am 100% self-taught, and definitely still learning. It’s been so challenging, with losing files, backup data failures, 12-hour wedding events, and learning to navigate through running a business from my dining room table. But I have never felt more accomplished. The struggle has been so real, but looking back at what seemed like an extremely long and bumpy road, I can see now that all of it was worth it. I’ve grown so much from when I started, and I am quite proud of where I am.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What sets me apart? Maybe my ability to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera (even the ones who claim they’re so awkward). My sessions feel less like a photoshoot and more like hanging out with a friend who just happens to have a camera glued to their hand. Most photographers don’t find themselves on the other side of the camera, so I relate well to those who don’t always feel at ease having their pictures taken. Oh and I am very honest, because I would want someone to be honest with me. If my client’s ask questions about locations or what not to wear, I will tell them the truth, not just what they want to hear. I want your photos to turn out beautiful just as much as you do (maybe even a bit more) so I will put in the effort to help see your vision and make this special.
What I’m most proud of is the way I’ve built my business from scratch while creating a life that I’ve always wanted. It hasn’t been a glamorous “overnight success” kind of story—it’s been more of a “steady climb fueled by caffeine and grit (and maybe a few tears).” But honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What does success mean to you?
Defining success is personal and unique to each person. For me, success is creating a life that feels meaningful and aligned with who I am. It’s being able to be me, mom, and a wife while building a business that not only lets me do what I love but also brings joy to others by capturing their most cherished moments.
At the end of the day, if I’m proud of the work I’ve done, connected with amazing people, and still found time to laugh, love, and create, then I know I’m on the right track.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cinderphotography.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cinderphotographs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CinderPhotography
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/cinder-photography-dayton-2
