Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke Goulding.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always loved photography, even as a little kid. My dad taught me how to use basic features of photoshop (and html) when I was only in 1st and 2nd grade. I loved using whatever camera I could get my hands on, a disposable camera, to an old broken flip phone. I finally got my first real digital camera in high school when I decided to take a digital photo class. I had so much fun with it, and also got more familiarized with the editing process. I fell in love with it with editing, especially projects that required me to mesh multiple images together.
My older sister also shares a passion for creativity and she started her own successful photography business when I was still very young. I always admired her work, and she has always been so quick to help and mentor me. To anyone starting out with photography, one of the quickest ways to learn is to have a mentorship of some kind!
I got married very young, barely 19 years old, and that Christmas my husband bought me my first DSLR camera. He has always believed in me and pushed me to set high goals, and I would not be where I am today without him.
Like everyone, I started out lacking a lot of knowledge that it takes to create amazing results. There were many tears, frustration, and I almost gave up so many times. My sister told me this: “all photographers feel this way at times, the only difference between successful photographers and those who fail, is that the successful photographers push through it, and the others quit.”
Over the next several years I was torn between my different passions. I got a certificate in graphic design, worked at a company that designed websites for small businesses, and started a degree in web design. I always had this feeling not to give up on photography.
In 2020, I decided to quit my job and focus on photography. I was able to give my business more attention and was able to work on my own skill. I was happy to realize that my schooling helped significantly with understanding adobe tools, color theory, composition, visual hierarchy and more. These skills are so helpful when it comes to photography as well.
In 2024, I was introduced to a photography business who was looking for some photographer associates. They took me on as a freelance photographer, while giving me access to trainings on not only my skill as a photographer, but also has a business owner. They have helped me with my own personal photography business and I’ve learned so much about marketing and pricing. My photography business has tripled within the last year!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest struggles along the way was trial and error. Especially early on I would get so frustrated when a shoot didn’t turn out the way I wanted. Looking back though I realize that is how we learn and grow in our professions. We have to allow ourselves to make mistakes if we want to become better.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a photographer that specializes in Family and Senior portraits. I pride myself in having people centered images with creamy blurred backgrounds. I incorporate fun games and prompts to help people feel comfortable in front of the camera, while also allowing for some awesome candid opportunities. I have over 100 location suggestions in my county alone, and I feel so blessed to be in such a beautiful state. One client I had never met had seen my work and flew out from Minnesota to get pictures taken from me in a lavender field for her senior photos! I was so honored that she liked my work that much! I also take so much pride in my editing work! I fix stray flyaway hair, head swap people when necessary. In one shoot, I even had someone request for me to edit her son’s bleached hair back to brunette for an entire set of photos, and I was able to!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes!!!!! I’m obsessed with the Moneylove podcast, it helps with so much more than just finances! I also love listening to Cassidy Lynn who is a very successful photographer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Brookegouldingphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brookeg_photography?igsh=ODd4ZHkwdnBlbzAz&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DMw5wZFmK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
