Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawna Vine.
Hi Shawna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My first photography class was in a High School darkroom. That spark followed me into college and developed (see what I did there?) into a study abroad program in Australia and then a Photojournalism degree. I was fortunate to be taken under the wing of Duluth’s top photographer (much love, Sharon) while learning the ropes. I don’t know where I would be without her. I quit my full-time job when I was 7 months pregnant with our second child. My partner told me, “you’ll work ten times harder at this dream if you don’t have something comfortable to fall back on.” I still get the privilege almost every day to stop time for people, make them feel beautiful, and tell an important story to them.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Trying to raise two nuggets while starting a photography business was borderline insanity. There are still many days when I struggle to perfect that balance of being a mom, a wife, and a business owner. I made a website in 2013, and my domain has been stolen twice. Yes, it’s my fault. But silly things like debit cards expiring and not updating the data on your website host don’t get on the list next to the week’s grocery list or school supplies. We usually have to fish through a laundry basket for clean underwear, and only one room is ever clean at a time, but I’d say we’re pretty lucky. I couldn’t have done this without my partner. He has cheered me on every step of the way. He has calmed my self-doubt when I’m positive I have failed, and he has picked up every loose end that I have left while trying to keep all the plates spinning.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I get the privilege of stopping the clock for people. I document their life, from the most important to the seemingly mundane; I specialize in weddings, grads, and family photos. I am most proud of my grad sessions, though. There is something about a shy or awkward, or insecure teenager that I relate to. Throughout our session, I see this unfolding of personality. I see them go from self-conscious to tall and proud, and it makes me feel so excellent that I get to make them feel the way they should feel for that short time. I think what sets me apart from others is my ability to relate to people. I’ve attended public, art, charter, and private school, and my background has made it easy for me to relate with anyone. My role is incredibly intimate, and I learn how to read people over time. You learn how to make them open up and relax. You even learn how to make them laugh, which is my all-time favorite part.
What does success mean to you?
I measure my wealth in time. I don’t care about the number of digits in my bank account or my taxes. I measure success in where and how I spend my time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shawnavine.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnavinephotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shawnavinephotography
