Today we’d like to introduce you to Tawnya English.
Hi Tawnya, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love of photography began at the age of 13. My grandmother gave me a kodak 110 camera. Then in high school, I took photography classes and art classes. The photography was just always there from shooting for the yearbook and journalism class to becoming a mom and having a camera.
During my children’s high school years. I again took on that roll of shooting their sports and school activities along with their senior pictures. Before I knew it, I was photographing other high school senior kids from the local school. A friend of mine approached me and had asked me to join him and his brother-in-law to photograph weddings and seniors. Fast forward, I nervously decided it was time to start up my own business in 2010. This is where Memories by Tawnya Photography was born.
I started out as all-genre photographer from shooting weddings, to seniors. But, then slowly began to realize where my true passion for photography was meant for. I Love photographing seniors, tweens & teens. This is my niche my heart is with the kids! I also photograph families, and business owners too!
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?
I have to admit, becoming a business owner is a ton of work. Many times, I have spent countless hours and days working on my business. I have put my family on the back burner while trying to pursue my dream job. I went from having one camera to a full studio setup with full photography gear, backdrops, and props. This was something that I never thought would happen. I have to give my husband, Donn some credit as well. He also worked very hard to help my dream come true. I am a part-time photographer and work also as a library clerk. My next goal is to become a full-time photographer and continue photographing thru my retirement years.
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?
My business has grown so much over the years. Now going on 12 years owning and operating Memories by Tawnya Photography. I’m an active member of many groups and organizations. PPA, local chamber groups, Antwerp Chamber, Paulding Chamber, PCED.
I strive to stay on the cutting edge of senior photography. I offer a model program for high school seniors and teens. The groups are called MBT-419SENIORS & MBT-419TEENS.
MBT does creative sports shoots with an added flare. I call this the Adrenaline Rush Session.
MBT also does family sessions and Holiday themed sessions like the Santa Experience. Along with toddler cake smashes.
I have attended numerous photography seminars to continue my education to help better serve my clients.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Some of my strengths that I have learned that was part of my success as a businesswoman. I strive to stay on the cutting edge of senior photography. I have the ability to create images that make people feel good about themselves. I am able to make my clients feel comfortable. Been told by many that I am likeable. I can relate well with teens & their parents. I have learned to accept that I am good at what I do! Something exciting to share about MBT. I have claimed many National Award-Winning Photography Awards. Go to my website or Facebook page to see.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.memoriesbytawnya.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memoriesbytawnya/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/memoriesbytawnyaphotography
Image Credits
Memories by Tawnya Photography
