We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shelby Miller. Check out our conversation below.
Shelby, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Embracing slower moments in life have really been bringing me so much joy lately. Taking a break, slowing down, and remembering to love the little things. This has also helped me creatively as well, sometimes the best ideas come when you’re not running after them.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a wedding, portrait, and couples photographer based in Duluth, MN. My work is inspired by the little everyday things I experience in life that make me smile. Old romance movies, thrift store finds of dusty old photos of unnamed people from an unknown time, love, and even the simple ways that people candidly move around and position themselves. If there’s one thing you need to know about me it’s that I love, LOVE – photographing it, experiencing it, witnessing it – I am here for it. There’s just something about feeling connection and love through a photo that I just can’t get enough of and I hope this radiates through my work.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
I am lucky enough to have parents that also run a small business. Through them, I was able to learn all the different aspects of running a business. Growing up, my parents always worked hard on growing their business and never let anything stop them. This helped me build a good understanding on how it all works, and that you must have passion in order to succeed.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I think one fear that really held me back when I first started out was the fear of what other people thought. As I’ve grown past this fear, I’ve come to realize that it truly does not matter what other people think and I need to do what makes me happy.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the wedding industry tries to convince everyone of, is that your wedding day has to be perfect. It only needs to feel perfect to the two people that are getting married. The flowers don’t need to be perfect, and it’s okay if you’re falling behind on the schedule or if you stutter on your vows. At the end of the day, you get to marry the love of your life and there’s nothing more perfect than that.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I’ve learned that it is so important to embracing the slow season. Taking a break is so important for creatives. During the slow season, I really give myself time to brainstorm and collect inspiration all while working on the behind the scenes projects that build up during my busy season. I think all of this keeps me from falling into a creative rut. I think a lot of people forget the importance of the slow season.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shelbyvictoriaphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelbyvictoriaphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shelbyvictoriaphotography/
Image Credits
Shelby Victoria Photography
