Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Griffin.
Hi Rachel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey officially began at age thirteen. I had suddenly began writing poetry in my notebooks in my bedroom. I was feeling, thinking, and going through so much before and after that I wasn’t conscious of what I was doing. That led to me being solid on my future career. Photography had not been considered an addition until my final year of high school. Realizing how fun it is and how much I could incorporate that into what I write, the more confident I became in my decision. My fascination for books had launched as well. I hadn’t fully realized my attraction towards books or writing until I was a senior in high school. That’s when a lot of the things I was wasn’t too sure about began to solidify. Though Pen & Camera went through many growing pains since 2015, so did I. Which is why I began writing, let alone start my business. It’s also why I photograph and video so much now. I have a voice, and I’m choosing to use it for positivity. I haven’t had many positive voices in my ear. I wish to be that positive voice for someone else. Even if it’s just one person, we can all heal, grow and be better for ourselves and each other. Growing up in Cleveland, there’s so many opportunities. Only if you aren’t being held back by outside forces. I can imagine how much I could’ve done, but everything happens for a reason. Though I wished for a different life, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. If it weren’t for my own traumas and healing from them, I probably wouldn’t have been inspired to write as much as I have. And once I have many acres of land, it’ll be a paradise for all animals. Especially for our future generations of children.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has had quite a few bumps. Two of the toughest to get over were my lack of confidence and an abundance of doubt. I had felt I wasn’t a good enough Writer or Photographer to even think about running my own business. I had even given up on this journey during some moments of my life. Even to the point where I took a hiatus before revamping everything and creating what I have today. If it weren’t for taking the time to heal, learn and grow, both on my own and with my husband, I wouldn’t still struggle to ride over those bumps in the road. Maybe even stop travelling altogether.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a Writer and Photographer. I’m also the Founder and CEO of Pen & Camera, my writing/photography business. I write novels, poetry, song lyrics, etc. I also take photographs of couples, nature, parties, cities, etc. I’d decided to combine what I love to do and create a business where I can work for myself. Become as self-sufficient as possible. I’m also known for Co-Owning Openeyezroduction, a non-profit geared towards helping others achieve their business goals and create better environments for people to live in. I’m most proud of achieving what most thought I couldn’t. Even myself at some points. I’m different from others because of the path I’ve chosen for my life. Genuinely knowing who I am and learning all of my capabilities sets me apart from everyone else.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I also have my own online newsletter entitled P&C NEWS. I pick from a variety of topics from around the globe to talk about. Whether it be a charity event I’ve participated in or war in foreign countries. Each monthly issue gives a new insight on what could be happening near and far.
Contact Info:
- Website: penandcamera.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/penandcamera1/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SnapAndWrite
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/penandcamera12
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_GuCgmGtvf6Go38_A3nvag
