Your Name: Chelsie Thompson
Business Name: Chelsie Thompson Photography
Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from? Family? Pets? Hobbies? Etc.
I’m originally from Portland, Oregon when I was 4 my Dad taught me how to use him film camera, my dream started that day. I wanted to be a photographer. Over the years that dream never swayed. I’ve always been an artsy person, I love painting, and crafting of all kinds, my hobbies are always changing I love to create both digital and with my hands. Since starting my family, my photography has become a way to document my children, and share with my husband when he’s deployed our adventures and important moments in our children’s lives.
Tell us about your Photography business. How did you start and why? What do you specialize in? Would you go back and do anything differently?
I started my photography business in 2008. After graduating high school it was the perfect thing to do in my extra time since I already loved photography and had ideas for business. I specialize in lifestyle family photography. I wouldn’t change anything, I love looking back and seeing all the growth and things I’ve learned on this journey.
Has it been a smooth road? Have you encountered struggles that you could share?
My business has definitely had some struggles, but I face them head on and figure out what I need to do to keep going. I’ve moved my business 4 times in the last 11 years and still hit goals and had growth.
What do enjoy the most about what you do? What do you enjoy the least?
I enjoy most connecting with families and photographing them. My least favorite thing is taxes, my husband is my accountant and does all that for me.
What inspires you?
Fun. I know it’s simple, but doing fun things, being around fun people really inspires my creativity.
What is your farewell piece of advice for someone interested in taking the first steps toward entering into your field?
My best piece of advice is to find what works for you and do that, there is no cookie cutter way of doing this. If you really want to make it as a photographer, just be yourself. My business has flourished as I’ve realized this and spent more time doing things I love and sharing them rather than showing the world what I thought they wanted to see.
What is your favorite Candy Bar?
Anything dark chocolate!
What is your favorite Childhood Memory?
When I first got my camera, I had 3 older sisters at the time, and a baby sister; I would make the older ones jump on the trampoline while I took photos. Today I still have families jumping around during their sessions.
You are a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be?
Teal/Aqua.
Chelsie Thompson Photography – Website / Facebook / Instagram
