Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Frost.
Beth, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I came to photography-as-work a little later in life, but not to photography in general. I’ve loved taking pictures of anything and everything since I was a kid. It runs in my family, actually; we have these really cool photos my great-grandparents took on their honeymoon in the 1920s, and I still have the antique Kodak camera they used (I use a much more modern camera for my sessions though!).
Taking pictures is my favorite thing to do in almost any situation, and I’ve absolutely loved the challenge that portrait photography has brought. It’s really pushed me and challenged me not just as a photographer, but also as an introvert. Figuring out creative ways to show and tell stories and helping people see themselves in their best light is really meaningful to me.
The name “Wednesday Bailey” comes from another meaningful challenge in my life–my puppy Wednesday. She helps me to get out and push myself, and to look at everything from a new perspective. As I continue to build my business, I hope that I can always approach it with her enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to keep trying.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
The road that I’ve taken has probably been the world’s least efficient path to a career in photography. I studied language in college and have worked in fundraising, but the path less taken has given me a ton of experience to rely on, a confidence and calmness I wouldn’t have had if I’d started my business when I was 22 (although a big part of me definitely wishes I’d started it then!). When I finally decided I was ready to take something so meaningful to me personally and turn it into something I do professionally, it was intimidating! Imposter syndrome is real and will knock you for a loop on a regular basis. Brené Brown says that shame has two messages: “you’re not good enough” and “who do you think you are?” Once you finally get enough confidence to move past the first one, the second one pops up. I still hear those messages during every step of the process, but the key for me is to keep moving, keep pushing, and keep challenging myself. Even this interview! You asked for 4-6 photos of me, and I had approximately 0 photos of myself I liked before this. I procrastinated for a while about it, but my partner is so consistently supportive, and finally, we went out and took some pictures. It wasn’t fun, but now I feel even better about shooting a portrait session because I understand a little more deeply the discomfort of being in front of the camera. Every situation is a chance to grow and become better at what I love, and I’m so grateful for each one.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for systems and organization so the business side is the fun part for me. Having a checklist for situations always ready to go makes me happier than you would expect. After that, I love capturing the story of someone. Surrounded by camera phones and social media, we all practice smiling for so long we sometimes forget how smiles come from happiness. I like to bring that happiness and laughter into my photo sessions, and capture those moments when you forget you have to wear a practiced smile. All of the prep work for each session helps me be at my best and most confident in bringing out joy and confidence, so I think my organizational side supports my creative one, rather than the other way around.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Take advantage of free webinars and YouTube channels! But a lot of paid online courses designed to teach you how to start a business aren’t the best place to invest your money. Their business is selling you information, but trial and error and patient friends and family will be the best help you could ask for. After that, knowing how to help people be more open is crucial! The few times I’ve been in front of the camera instead of behind it are such a challenge for me personally–I feel like the queen of awkwardness! Helping people move out of that place of discomfort takes practice, but do your preparation and be open and flexible and it’ll be great.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wednesdaybailey.com
- Instagram: wednesday_bailey_photography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085586887371
Image Credits
Wednesday Bailey Photography
