Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Darr
Hi Annie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I never grew up knowing I would or wanted to be a wedding photographer. I knew I probably would do something in business or marketing but never thought I could make this passion into a full-time career. Fast forward to 2019, I started taking on weddings and photographing anything and everything I could. I really found my home with wedding photography and knew I wanted to capture couples special day.
Fast forward to today, I run a multi-year, six-figure business as a wedding photographer, videographer + super 8 filmmaker. I co-own a studio in Delaware, OH where I take motherhood and boudoir photos.
On a personal level, I am a wife and mother to 2-year twins. We have a 7 year old german shorthaired pointer, and we love to travel and take adventures together as a family.
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 definitely not been a smooth road. Being a business owner is unlike any other job I’ve had in the past. There’s a loneliness not many people talk about. You have to be really proactive at creating a community and village where you can support and feel supported by others in your industry.
The biggest obstacle I faced in my career was when I was pregnant with my twins and navigating my business and making sure my clients were also taken care of. After my twins were born, juggling being a new mother and also nurturing my growing business was one of the hardest struggles I have faced in the last 7 years.
I will say, although it was a hard transition, two years later I can confidently say being a mother is my superpower in my business. I understand MORE how precious moments are, they are fleeting, and I truly don’t take for granted being able to capture these moments for my couples.
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?
I am a wedding + motherhood photographer + filmmaker based in Columbus, OH. I take inspiration from film photography and love the nostalgia of film. I am know for my true-to-life colors and making my couples and clients feel comfortable in front of the camera. I like to capture moments in real time and document real-life moments that my clients can forever look back on their precious memories.
I also love to travel for weddings + for personal travel. In 2025 I will be going to San Francisco, Colorado, and the Grand Canyon.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
This is such an important question. Having a mentor and networking I think is the MOST important thing you can do early in your business to grow x100 faster than others. Investing in education, and good education will have you learn more and know what you need to work on to get even better, faster.
Networking in the Wedding Industry is SO important. Getting face to face with wedding planners, florists, venues, etc, will get your name out the faster than sitting behind your computer, waiting for leads to come in.
What worked for me was finding a mentor I trusted and had one-on-one conversations with them and asking all my burning questions. Find someone who you aspire to be like and learn all their secrets 😉
Contact Info:
- Website: https://anniedarr.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anniedarrphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anniedarrphoto
