Daily Inspiration: Meet Joanna Andres

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Andres.

Hi Joanna, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
As a stay-at-home mom to my two young children, I found myself captivated by the fleeting beauty of their milestones. Every smile, every giggle, every moment of growth was a priceless treasure I longed to preserve. While we often hired photographers to capture these cherished moments, my husband, a teacher at the time, suggested an empowering idea: to purchase my own camera and embark on a journey of capturing my children’s lives through the lens. 

With a camera in hand and a heart brimming with enthusiasm, I enrolled in a photography class at a local camera shop. Eager to master the technical aspects, I delved into the world of settings, exposure, and composition. My passion for photography grew with each passing day, and I carried my camera everywhere, capturing the essence of my children’s daily adventures. 

As my skills developed, I sought guidance from a friend who was well-versed in Lightroom and Photoshop. Under her tutelage, I discovered the art of digital editing, transforming my photographs into captivating works of art. 

My newfound passion for photography soon resonated with my social circle. Friends and family marveled at the images I shared on Facebook, showering me with compliments and encouraging me to pursue photography professionally. Inspired by their support, I began offering my services to friends and family, charging a nominal fee for my work. Word quickly spread, and my clientele steadily expanded. 

Determined to provide clients with an exceptional experience, I transformed my home office into a cozy and inviting studio, bathed in natural light and adorned with backdrops perfectly suited for newborn and child portraits. To further elevate my skills, I invested in online courses and hands-on newborn workshops, immersing myself in the intricacies of newborn photography. 

As my business thrived, I found myself yearning for a larger and more professional workspace. With careful planning and dedication, I transformed my basement into a spacious studio equipped with state-of-the-art lighting equipment and an array of props, outfits, and headbands. This expansion not only enhanced my ability to accommodate more clients but also provided an atmosphere that exuded professionalism and creativity. 

Today, my passion for photography remains as strong as ever. With each passing year, my skills continue to evolve, and my dedication to providing my clients with timeless images grows ever deeper. As I look towards the future, I envision expanding my business into a thriving commercial space, allowing me to capture the precious moments of countless families and create lasting memories that will be cherished for generations to come. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey as a business owner has not been without its challenges. In 2019, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, a diagnosis that came as a complete shock. Despite my healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and lack of family history, I found myself facing this unexpected hurdle. 

I underwent eight rounds of chemotherapy and 32 rounds of radiation, followed by a lumpectomy due to a positive response to the chemotherapy. Given the aggressive nature of my cancer, I require annual monitoring with a mammogram at the beginning of the year and an MRI in the middle. 

In August of this year, I was on the verge of signing a lease for a new commercial property located just behind my house when I received my MRI results. The results revealed Atypical Lobular Hyperplasia (ALH), a condition characterized by the development of cancerous or precancerous fast-growing cells. 

Faced with this new challenge, I made the difficult decision to forgo the commercial lease and opt for a double mastectomy, effectively eliminating the need for future mammograms and breast MRIs. While this decision will require me to take a two-month hiatus from my business, I am confident in my ability to return stronger and more resilient than ever before. With renewed determination, I look forward to resuming my business endeavors and securing a new commercial property in the near future. 

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?
Welcome to a world of exquisite photography where you, the expectant parent or proud guardian, can simply relax and cherish the extraordinary moments of your journey. My passion lies in capturing the fleeting beauty of newborn life, the infectious joy of childhood, and the radiant grace of motherhood. 

Step into a realm of tranquility where every detail is meticulously crafted to create an unforgettable experience. From selecting the perfect props and backdrops to curating a wardrobe of adorable outfits, I take care of everything, ensuring that your session is nothing short of extraordinary. 

All you need to do is bring your precious bundle of joy, and I’ll handle the rest, transforming your vision into a collection of timeless images that will forever capture the essence of this remarkable chapter in your life. 

Let me guide you through a stress-free and luxurious photography experience where every moment is cherished, and every image is a work of art. Together, we’ll create a visual legacy that will be treasured for generations to come. 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I like to use a meditating app every day to clear my mind and focus on breathing to help with anxiety and stress. It’s so important for me to be calm and patient during a newborn session because the baby can feel your energy. 

Pricing:

• Our Session Fees range from $150 to $250, and they cover all the essentials for an unforgettable session: Styling – Our experienced photographers will expertly style your session, ensuring that every detail is picture-perfect. Props – We have an extensive collection of props and accessories to enhance your baby’s photos, from whimsical headbands to adorable wraps. Backdrops – We offer a variety of backdrops to complement your baby’s style and personality, creating a visually stunning setting for their portraits. Outfits – We provide a selection of adorable outfits to dress your little one in, adding a touch of charm and elegance to their photos. All you need to bring is your precious bundle of joy! We’ll handle the rest, ensuring that you have a stress-free and enjoyable experience. In addition to our Session Fees, we also offer a variety of digital images, heirloom wood prints, and Keepsake albums to help you preserve your cherished memories. These items are not included in the session fee but can be purchased at the time of your session. With our competitive pricing and commitment to quality, we believe that Joanna Andres Photography is the perfect choice for capturing the magic of your newborn’s first moments. Contact us today to schedule your session and embark on a journey of creating timeless memories.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.joannaandresphotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannaandresphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoannaAndresPhotography

Image Credits
Joanna Andres Photography