Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Castor.
Hi Candace, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
What started as a creative escape turned into my calling. I picked up a camera during a season of personal transformation and healing—initially just to document my family and the fleeting, messy, beautiful moments of everyday life. I fell in love with the way photography allowed me to feel time instead of fear it.
Over the years, my work has grown from spontaneous snapshots to intentional storytelling—focused on raw, emotional, and honest imagery. I specialize in photographing families, couples, maternity, and self-portraits, and I’m constantly inspired by human connection and the quiet magic in ordinary moments.
Building this business has been a journey of trusting my gut, learning as I go, and always coming back to the why: to help people see themselves in the most beautiful, real way possible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Definitely not a smooth road—and honestly, I don’t think I’d trust it if it had been.
There have been seasons of doubt, burnout, comparison, and the constant battle of balancing creativity with the demands of running a business. Learning to price my worth, set boundaries, and say no to things that didn’t align with my vision wasn’t easy at first. I’ve dealt with slow seasons, reschedules, gear upgrades I couldn’t quite afford, and that internal voice that sometimes whispers, “Am I even good enough?”
But each challenge pushed me to grow—not just as a photographer, but as a person. I’ve learned to trust my process, lean into my own voice, and embrace imperfection as part of the beauty. The hard parts made the rewarding moments mean even more.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a photographer specializing in raw, emotional, and story-driven imagery for families, couples, maternity, milestones, and self-portraits. My work isn’t about forced smiles or perfect poses—it’s about connection, movement, and the beauty in the in-between moments. I want my clients to feel their photos, not just see them.
I’m most known for capturing the kind of emotion that makes you pause—a look, a laugh, the way someone holds your hand. Whether it’s the salty wind during a golden hour beach session or the stillness of a fresh 48 in a hospital room, I aim to preserve moments with honesty and soul.
What sets me apart is my ability to make people feel comfortable and seen. I’m not just showing up with a camera—I’m showing up with intention, empathy, and a deep respect for whatever chapter you’re in. I also don’t shy away from realness; messy hair, belly laughs, crooked toddler grins—those are my favorite details.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how many clients tell me after a session that they felt seen, beautiful, and connected—not just to the photos, but to the experience itself. That means everything to me.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
So many people have played a role in my journey, and I’ll forever be grateful. First and foremost, my clients—especially the ones who trusted me early on when I was still finding my voice. Their belief in me, referrals, and willingness to come along for the ride helped build the foundation of this business.
I’ve also been lucky to have some incredible photographer friends and mentors who reminded me that there’s room for all of us in this industry. They helped me grow, gave honest feedback, and cheered me on when I doubted myself. The creative community I’ve found through workshops, retreats, and late-night editing chats has been a huge source of inspiration and support.
And of course, my family. From helping me juggle schedules, to being models when I needed to practice, to reminding me why I started in the first place—they’ve been my constant anchor.
Every shoot, every kind word, every “you’ve got this” has mattered. I might run this business on my own, but I never feel like I’m doing it alone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.waveandwonder.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waveandwonderphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/waveandwonderphoto
