Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddie Blecha.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Maddie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My story starts during my freshman year of college in Saint Louis, where I was majoring in biology of all things. I made it through my first semester when it really sank in that biology was not for me and that I was 100% in the wrong place. But I stuck with it and during my second semester, I decided to change things up and enroll in a photography class there. I had played around with photography in the past and really just desperately needed a change from all of the math and science classes I was taking.
But within that first photo class, I knew something was different. It was almost as though, right then and there, something in me was saying ‘this is it’. I really had no background in art at the time, but I completely changed tracks and transferred schools the very next semester to pursue photography in Chicago. It was one of the most irrational things I’ve done, but I’m so happy it did because everything fell into place from there!
My professors at Colombia College Chicago taught me how to expose properly, create interesting compositions, and tell passionate stories. Upon graduating, I began shooting for Michelle Lytle Photography and with some amazing guidance from her, I was able to launch my own wedding and newborn photography business two years later. I’ve found such a passion for running my own business – nonetheless a business that specializes in creating so many special memories for people. I can’t even begin to describe how much I love my job and how much appreciation I have for those who have supported me along the way.
Great, 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?
I think the hardest part for me was taking my art degree and trying to apply it in the business world. Figuring out how to manage everything from client communications to financial organization was a whirlwind without prior business experience…so I just took things a step at a time until I figured out a good flow that seemed too worked for me. I think I will always be learning and improving upon the way I do things though!
Maddie Blecha Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I run a boutique photography business that specializes in capturing weddings and newborns from a photojournalistic perspective. These new beginnings are perfect just as they are, so I aim to artistically capture the details and genuine moments that make each story so unique. Taking on a limited number of bookings each year, we are able to create a comfortable and personable experience for each amazing couple we work with.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
I don’t think there has been any one ‘proudest’ moment. If anything, I’d say there are a series of really rewarding moments that occur, like hearing how much a client loves their photos, or seeing my work hanging on someone’s wall… Especially since this business involves creating something that is so extremely personal to people, it’s just so rewarding when you get to see how much your work means to them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maddieblecha.com
- Email: maddie@maddieblecha.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/maddieblechaphoto
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/maddieblechaphoto
- Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/maddie-blecha-photography-chicago
Image Credit:
Maddie Blecha Photography
