Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Stewart
Hi Megan, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From a young age, photography has been an integral part of my life. Growing up, my dad had a high-quality camera that I was fortunate enough to learn with. I remember being captivated by the idea of freezing moments in time and capturing the world through a lens. I took a few photography classes here and there, which introduced me to the intricacies of developing film and creating prints in a dark room. For about 20 years, my passion was focused on nature and landscape photography. I loved taking my camera on trips to capture the beauty of the natural world, often exploring stunning locations in Ireland, London, Austin, Chicago, and San Francisco. Urban photography also became a passion as I began to document the vibrant life of city streets. I even partnered with local boutiques and artisan fairs to sell my work, seeing firsthand how photography could connect with people on a personal level.
Once I had children, my perspective shifted, and I found myself drawn to family photography. My own kids, now 6 and 9, became my practice subjects, and I honed my skills capturing the fleeting moments of their early years. This eventually evolved into a thriving business, starting with the occasional family shoot and growing into seasonal sessions, taking full advantage of the beautiful spring and fall seasons in Texas. I’ve expanded my focus beyond family photos, offering sessions that cater to all phases of life, from newborns and senior portraits to headshots and personal branding. I’m passionate about capturing authentic moments and creating portraits that truly reflect each person’s story.
Most recently, I joined a local neighborhood magazine as their photographer, where I capture the essence of families featured each month. It’s been an incredible opportunity to hear their stories, witness their interactions, and immortalize those moments. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing my business, with plans to expand into studio work. I want to offer more diversified settings and custom photo shoots, further fueling my love for art and creativity. For me, photography is about more than just taking pictures—it’s about evoking emotion, inspiring others, and creating something beautiful that will last for generations.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As a photographer, the journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing. One of the most biggest struggles I’ve faced is balancing creativity with the practical side of running a business. From navigating inconsistent income, to dealing with unpredictable weather for outdoor shoots, it often feels like a constant dance between managing expectations and staying true to my artistic vision. There’s also the challenge of working with different personalities—every family or individual has unique dynamics, and it’s my job to ensure they feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera. Learning to adapt to each situation and still capture authentic, beautiful moments has been a key part of my growth. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges; each obstacle is an opportunity to refine my skills and push my creativity to new heights, making every moment I capture feel even more meaningful.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in capturing genuine moments and emotions, with a focus on family photography. I’m known for creating relaxed, natural portraits that showcase the connection between loved ones. Whether it’s a family session, a maternity shoot, or a milestone moment like a graduation or senior portrait, I strive to make my clients feel at ease and comfortable in front of the camera, allowing their true selves to shine through.
What sets me apart is my background in both nature and urban photography, which has given me a keen eye for beautiful settings and light, no matter where the shoot takes place. I also bring a personal touch to every session, drawing from my own experiences as a parent. Working with children and families is something I deeply enjoy, and I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness families interacting, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories.
In addition to family photography, I’m also expanding my offerings to include studio work and personal branding, helping clients tell their stories across all phases of life. I’m passionate about art and authenticity, and I believe that each photo should not only capture a moment but also evoke emotion and inspiration. What truly sets me apart is my commitment to creating images that are not only beautiful but meaningful, reflecting the uniqueness of each person and family I work with.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I am very intentional about supporting others in my community. Networking isn’t just about what you can get, but also what you can give. Offering help, advice, or collaborating on projects with others in your field can open doors and establish mutually beneficial relationships. I’ve also made a point to connect with other small business owners across various industries, as I know what its like to strive to do what you love and also provide for a family and deal with the practicalities of life. I want to see others succeed, especially moms like myself, who juggle it all. From a full time job, to kids, to growing a business from a hobby, I get it.
Ultimately, what’s worked for me is being consistent and genuine in my efforts to connect with others. Building a network doesn’t happen overnight, but by showing up, being active in your community, and maintaining a genuine interest in learning from those around you, you’ll naturally find mentors and like-minded individuals who can support and inspire your journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.meganaynphotography.com
- Instagram: @meganaynphotography
Image Credits
photos taken by me, Megan Stewart, of meganayn photography; in addition to my headshots taken by Celina McGraw
