Unforgettable Photography by Anna

Writing a bio about yourself is never easy, but I will admit I have had a very blessed life with so many things I’m proud of.

One of those is opening a photography studio when I was only 21 years old. I wrote up a business plan, talked to my family about it, went to the bank and they gave me a loan. One part of my brain says “Wow, were they crazy?! Who gives a 21-year-old kid a loan?” but another little voice says “Hey girl! You deserved it! They knew you were good! They knew you were special. Be thankful!” Which I am.

I love teaching and helping other photographers, both locally and across the nation. In 2013, the Professional Photographers of America awarded me my Craftsman Degree for teaching and mentoring.

A year later, I found myself on stage with 100 other photographers from around the world along with country music legend Kenny Rogers, receiving my Master of Photography Degree (and, yes, I do have a photo with him). I’m proud to say that I’m the only photographer in Clinton County who holds both titles of Master Photographer and Photographic Craftsman.

Yet, I didn’t build the success of my studio all on my own. I studied with some of the best photographers in the country and pushed myself to be the best I could possibly be. Many of those mentors are now close friends, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the knowledge they have given me.

Through their observations, I now realize that Unforgettable Photography is one of the largest and most successful studios in the state of Illinois and St. Louis Metro East area.

It’s been a gratifying 18 years. I’m humbled to be chosen for Kodak Awards and to have received numerous ‘Best of’ Awards, been featured on national photography blogs, and published in Professional Photographer Magazine multiple times.

ONE OF MY FAVORITE SHIRTS SAYS...

MOMBIE:

(n.) Mom-be: A sleep deprived supermom who feeds on Starbucks & Ski.

They survive on sticky kisses and messy smiles.

Mombies are master multi-taskers and suck it uppers.

I think that pretty much describes my mantra on both a personal and business level. I’ll do whatever it takes to make you happy. I’m not afraid to get messy or work hard to achieve extraordinary results. I’m not ashamed of the fact that sometimes I get a little “bossy” when I know things need to get done. Just ask my kids or anyone who has been a part of a large wedding party photographed by me. Even the crabbiest of groomsmen will smile for a photo if I’m in charge! I’ve been covered in baby poo. I’ve picked noses. I’ve carried 6-year-olds on my back because they didn’t want to walk across the yard to a location I wanted to use. I’ve held the bride’s dress while she went to the bathroom. I’ve climbed on vehicles and buildings to get the angle I wanted. I’ve even switched bras with senior girls before. I’m willing to work up a sweat in the summer and give you the coat off my back in the winter. Plain and simple, I’ll work my tail off to make my clients happy.

After being in the photography world for over 20 years, I’ve gained the confidence to create images that you are going to love. We, myself included, need to stop being so hard on ourselves. I’ve heard it time and time again: “When I lose another 10 pounds I’ll schedule a session.” But guess what? Your kids, my kids, they are going to love us and think we are the most beautiful mom in the world, no matter what we see in the mirror.

Did you ever see this quote roaming the internet? “I wish I was as fat as the first time I thought I was fat.” Yeah, looking back at myself when I was 18, DANG! Where did that girl go?

Well, let’s see…she started a business, grew that business beyond her wildest dreams, got married to her high school sweetheart, had four kids, suffered two painful miscarriages, built a home, traveled the country, opened a second business (because that’s what crazy people do-LOL), spent time with friends, and realized just how amazing life can be.

So here’s the thing: I want you to let go of all the excuses and love who you are right now! I’ll give you beautiful lighting and perfect posing. I’ll show YOU the best YOU.

I’ve got this kid thing, too! Having four of my own, ranging from teenager to toddler, I know there can be meltdowns, sassiness, and anxiety. I think the reason I have so much success with kids’ photography is because I can handle it! When I need it, I pull out my magic wand…bubble wand that is. You’d be amazed at my bubble skills! If I’m lucky, your kids will see me out and about in public and surprise me with a hug. It happens often, and there is nothing more gratifying! I’ve also been called “Baby Whisperer” amongst many of our newborn parents, and I find many of them asking if I’m available for hire in the middle of the night. I always tell them how I found myself singing Darius Rucker’s song, “It Won’t Be Like This For Long,” in the middle of the night when my children were infants. Try it. See if it helps your sanity in that hour. However, if it doesn’t, you can call me at any hour, I’ll come and snuggle with your baby until they are back asleep.

I’m just like everyone else. I’ve most likely been in your shoes. I was once a high schooler. I had the same thoughts, excitement, and anxiety that all kids feel as teenagers. I was once a bride, so I know the time and emotion that goes into a wedding day and wanting everything to run perfectly. Now I’m a wife and a mother. Time goes by way too fast. Let me stop time for this fleeting moment and capture something for you that will last for generations. I know what’s important, and I’m here to make you love photography and love having your portrait taken.