Today we’d like to introduce you to Carrie Olinger.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Carrie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started the way a lot of people do: taking pictures of my kid. Then, what began as a hobby turned into a passion, and I couldn’t consume knowledge fast enough. I took boatloads of courses and workshops, and I got good enough that people started asking me to take their picture. A few of them even paid me. Then enough people paid me that I was able to quit my day job and focus on photography. That’s when the real work of developing my style, my brand, and my business began. And I’m still working on it. It’s not easy, but I get to spend my days creating, working with amazing clients, and building something for my family. AND I’m there for my kids. It’s a long journey and I still have so much to learn, but I absolutely love where I’m at right now.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has been a decidedly bumpy road. This will come as a surprise to absolutely no one (except for me), but running a business is hard. Especially for creative types who just want to take pretty pictures and get paid for it. I also struggled to find my niche. There are so many amazing photographers out there, and it’s so easy to compare yourself to them. It took me a really long time to recognize and appreciate my own voice. Heck, I couldn’t even decide what I wanted to photograph.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Carrie Lee Photography – what should we know?
I photograph weddings, and I am also a certified birth photographer. I have a documentary style, and I’m drawn to personal connections and genuine emotions; I’m known for my ability to capture personality, emotion, and real moments. I also strive to always tell a story with my photos, and it’s something I do really well.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My husband deserves a medal for sticking with me and only mildly freaking out when I announced that I was quitting my job. I also rely on my photographer friend Lauren Lakeberg. We often shoot weddings together, and she is a font of wisdom for me on all things photography and business related. And, of course, I have amazing family and friends who believe in me and my crazy dream and who allowed me to take thousands of pictures of them when I was developing my craft.
Pricing:
- Wedding packages start at $2800.
- I am taking on a very limited number of births for the remainder of 2018 and 2019.
- Birth sessions are $1600.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.carrieleephoto.com
- Phone: 708-287-5459
- Email: info@carrieleephoto.com
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
