Today we’d like to introduce you to Connie Chen.
Hi Connie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Connie, and I have been interested in photography ever since I was a little kid. I used to have a Sony point-and-shoot camera that I would bring with me everywhere. As I got older, my travels to my parents’ home country of Taiwan, and trips abroad to Peru and Costa Rica inspired me to learn more about photography to document the beautiful landscapes and culture around me.
I started my career in data analytics, but after 5 years in the field, I quickly realized that I needed a job that gave me more flexibility in my schedule and allowed me to use my creative brain. I started my photography business in 2020 while I was living in Vermont for a month, and I haven’t looked back since! I’m now a full time photographer that specializes in photographing weddings and portraits with a sprinkle of branding and boudoir photography when my schedule allows it.
Alright, 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?
The biggest struggle was the transition period from my corporate job to starting my business, as well as starting my photography business during covid when wedding reschedules and social distancing rules were still in place. There was a 6 month period where I was juggling both my full-time job in tech, along with weddings and engagement shoots in the evenings and on the weekends. I knew that I had to make a decision to go full-time with my business before I reached a breaking point of burnout. I told myself that if I went full-time with my business, in 5 years, I would look back and realize it was the best decision I ever made. 6 years later, looking back at going full-time, I still feel the same way, and I’m even more proud of the community I’ve created and goals I’ve accomplished along the way.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a full-time photographer specializing in wedding and portraits, with some branding and boudoir photography mixed in when my schedule allows. I’m known for my hybrid style of documentary/ editorial photography, and creating art that feels alive, colorful, and creative. The last 3 years, I’ve incorporated film photography into my workflow – I love that film encourages the photographer to slow down and savor the subject that they’re documenting.
I’m proud to run my business in a way that honors diversity & inclusion, and I believe in love in all its forms. I also work towards cultivating a safe space for LGBTQIA+ communities and BIPOC. My personality is what sets me apart from others – I offer warm and inviting space for my clients, and I tailor the way that I approach each photography session to each client – I can read a room!
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
If you’re fearful of taking the next step, it means that it’s something worth trying & something that you care about; the payoff will be worth it. I’ve always been nervous before making big decisions, and each one has always been rewarding after diving into the unknown. 6 years later, I can truly say that starting my own business is one of the best decisions I have ever made, and it’s helped me build confidence in myself as a person along the way.
Hard work and consistency always wins over talent, so as long as you are willing to put in the consistent work to grow, you will reach your goals.
Pricing:
- My elopements start at $2200 & my weddings start at $3900
Contact Info:
- Website: https://conniechenphotography.com
- Instagram: @conniechenphotos
