Today we’d like to introduce you to Marena Rudy.
Marena, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
If I really think back, my journey began in my high school photo class. I really loved the magic that came with a 35mm and a darkroom. Fast forward eight years, my love blossomed as a wedding gift from my husband. He bought me a new DSLR and some classes so that I could document our honeymoon and get back into photography.
For some reason, early on as a hobbyist, I felt a connection to documenting children and families. I dabbled in just about everything, but I kept going back to the bond of families. Without any children of my own, it was tricky getting started. I was still working full-time and documenting families on the weekend for basically nothing, just to grow my portfolio and learn. In 2013, I attended a conference in Charleston, SC held by the National Association of Professional Child Photographers which changed my life.
The organization is full of amazing people. I met so many smart, talented, successful, kind and driven photographers who were supporting their family with photography, something I never imagined possible. I got a real kick in the butt and went home and quit my job. My studio opened full-time in May of 2013. I feel so fortunate to call my passion my job. I am humbled and honored each time a family chooses me to document the most important thing in the world – family memories.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Owning your own business is never totally smooth. Each challenge and frustration allows you to learn, grow and trying new things before another pops up. It is really impossible to be good at every aspect. Since opening, I’ve had two children of my own and my biggest struggle is managing a growing business and still being present for the most important people in my life.
I’ve started to outsource bits and pieces of the backend work which has allowed to take on more sessions (my favorite part). I’ve realized that I just can’t be good at everything. This freedom has been instrumental for my growth as a photographer and has allowed me to regain some of the creativity I felt that I lost.
Please tell us about Marena Beck Photography.
Marena Beck Photography is a family, child and newborn portrait studio that specializes in celebrating the moments of childhood that are otherwise lost. Every family has a unique story and every child deserves to SEE and REMEMBER just how loved they are. I don’t have a cookie cutter formula for sessions, nor do I do much direction in my posing.
My goal for sessions is to build off of the energy and connection within families, I feel this generates real, raw imagery. There are a lot of very talented artists in our great city and it is so much fun to be connected within the community. We each have different shooting styles and editing styles which ultimately makes each of us unique. I’ve been told that my laid-back approach to sessions and outgoing personality helps clients to relax and truly enjoy the time spent with me. I want clients to look at their images and really see themselves.
I’m incredibly proud to say that I’ve been recognized in the industry with several award-winning images across multiple international competitions, as well as featured articles among a variety of publications. I’m very involved in several industry communities which allows me to continue to grow both personally and professionally. One last thing I want to mention is that I do my best to serve my clients to the best of my ability.
Nothing makes my heart flutter more than seeing clients enjoy their photos where they belong – in print on their walls or in an album. I want each one of my clients to have images surrounding them of the people that mean the most.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
My favorite part is the food. I love having so many delicious options to eat at. What I like least about the city would have to be the parking tickets I always seem to get.
Pricing:
- Milestone Mini Sessions begin at $450
- Family and Newborn Sessions begin at $850
Contact Info:
- Address: 1359 W. Barry Ave Chicago, IL 60657
- Website: www.marenabeckphotography.com
- Phone: 216-533-1061
- Email: marenabeckphotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/marenabeckphotog
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/marenabeckphotography
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/marena-beck-photography-chicago
Image Credit:
Marena Beck Photography
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