Today we’d like to introduce you to Camille Adriane
Hi Camille, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve always been an artist. My first love was painting, drawing, mixed media, and clay! I discovered this part of myself in high school. What I enjoyed the most about it was that I could get into a flow, where everything else would melt away. It was a way for me to escape and heal at the same time.
Growing up in a small town in North Dakota, and not having artist parents, gave me a limiting belief that I couldn’t pursue art as a living. So I started brainstorming other ways I could be creative and make a good living from it. I turned to photography. I got my first DSLR during my junior year of high school. I had other cameras in my past while growing up and always loved getting my photo taken or having fun with my friends taking pictures. But something really clicked the first time I captured a friend using my Nikon D3200. I had no clue what I was doing, but WOW! I captured some amazing shots right off the bat. It was like taking my first art class again—it just clicked and felt so natural. I was in my element.
I went to college in downtown Minneapolis at a small community college. It provided me with the technical skills, but it didn’t grow or nurture my creative, unique side. Honestly, I felt so confused about where to take my business after leaving college, but I knew I wanted to live somewhere warmer. I decided to move to Austin, Texas, in the spring of 2018.
The first two years were really rough as I tried to make connections and find my way in a new city, not knowing anyone. There were so many deaths and rebirths in my life during this time as I found my voice as an artist. In 2020, I discovered how much I love capturing embodied women—women who made art right in front of me simply by moving their bodies in an authentic way. I slowly started to build community in Austin, and as I did, my business continued to grow.
Now, four years later, I’m so glad I stuck it through and kept pushing forward, even just a little every day. I am currently focusing on brand, lifestyle, retreat, and newly wedding photography! I was hired by a retreat company in 2024 and have second-shot four weddings in the last few months of 2024. Moving into 2025, I feel clearer about my direction and vision for my business than ever before! My advice: just keep going!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Looking back, my journey has been anything but a straight and smooth road. It’s been filled with challenges, growth, and deep self-reflection. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was finding my voice—both as an artist and as a person. Early on, I struggled with knowing what truly set me apart, what I wanted to say through my work, and how to express it in a way that felt authentic. It took time, experimentation, and a lot of self-discovery to uncover my unique perspective and embrace it fully.
Along with that, trusting in myself was another challenge. Doubt would creep in, making me question whether I was on the right path or if I was even capable of creating the life I envisioned. Learning to trust my instincts and lean into my creative flow required patience and a willingness to take risks even when I didn’t have all the answers. I had to remind myself that growth happens in the unknown, and every step forward, no matter how uncertain, was still progress.
Another major challenge was self-worth. For a long time, I tied my value to external validation—whether it was client feedback, social media engagement, or financial success. I had to unlearn the idea that my worth was dependent on how others perceived me and instead cultivate a deep, internal sense of confidence. This shift allowed me to create from a place of passion rather than pressure, making my work and my life more fulfilling.
Along the way, I also had to learn the importance of letting go of distractions. There were so many things that pulled me in different directions—opportunities that weren’t aligned, relationships that drained me, and habits that kept me playing small. It wasn’t easy, but once I started saying no to what didn’t serve me, I had the clarity and space to pour my energy into what truly mattered.
One of the most rewarding but also challenging aspects of my journey has been building community. I deeply value connection, but creating a strong, supportive network takes time and effort. I had to step out of my comfort zone, put myself out there, and actively cultivate relationships with like-minded people. It wasn’t always easy, but the sense of belonging and mutual support I’ve found has been invaluable.
And finally, stepping into my confidence was a process that took time. Confidence isn’t something that happens overnight—it’s built through action, experience, and self-trust. I had to push through fear, put myself in situations that stretched me, and remind myself that I belonged in every space I stepped into. Now, I stand more firmly in who I am, knowing that I have the skills, passion, and resilience to create the life I desire.
Though the road hasn’t been smooth, every challenge has shaped me, strengthened me, and brought me closer to the person I’m meant to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m mainly a women’s brand, lifestyle, and retreat photographer. What makes me stand out from others is my background in energy healing and space holding. I create a unique and safe environment where my clients’ authentic selves can shine through.
For the past three years, I have been hosting events called Activated. Each event begins with a guided meditation, where I assist the women in releasing what isn’t serving them and calling in what they wish to manifest. It’s a POWERFUL process. After the meditation, everyone gets one-on-one time in front of the camera while all the other women hold space and cheer them on. This dynamic creates a very activating and transformative experience.
I love mixing photography with energy healing to help propel people into their dream lives! My goal is to empower women by capturing their essence and helping them embrace their true selves. Whether it’s through the lens of my camera or the energy of the space I create, I am dedicated to fostering growth, confidence, and connection in every session.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve had so many mentors, coaches, and people supporting me along the way. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. Some I sought out, while others have been friends and family. In the summer of 2024, I really dove in. I received coaching from a local photographer who helped me redesign my website, build my confidence, and strategize some business ideas. At the same time, I was also participating in two other group coaching programs.
Honestly, I’m almost always involved in a coaching or group program. This approach feels best for me and keeps me moving forward. There was a time when I hesitated to invest in myself because the cost seemed too steep. However, I decided to either trade photo shoots or let go of that fear and invest in my growth. That’s when I saw a huge turnaround in my business.
My advice to others is to find a way to invest in yourself. Whether through coaching, workshops, or other professional development opportunities, committing to your growth can lead to incredible changes. Remember, investing in yourself is never a waste; it’s the path to unlocking your full potential!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.camilleadriane.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camilleadrianephotography/
- Facebook: Camille Adraine Photography
- LinkedIn: Camille Adriane
- Yelp: Camille Adriane Photography
