We recently had the chance to connect with Mary Brown and have shared our conversation below.
Mary, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
It’s not that I’m suddenly fearless. I still wrestle with nerves and uncertainty—but I choose to move forward with what I believe in and pray is right for both my business and myself. Over the years, I’ve made bold moves, hard decisions, and taken risks that stretched me in ways I never expected. And now, I find myself in another season of change.
Do I hold onto a part of my dream—one I worked tirelessly for, one I envisioned for years? Or do I release it, trusting that letting go might make room for something even better?
Three years ago, I reached a milestone within my business. I built something I had long dreamed of. But here’s what I’ve come to learn: reaching a dream is beautiful… and recognizing when your dreams and goals evolve? That’s even more powerful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Mary—the owner, lead photographer, and creative force behind Frances Design Photography, based in the Tampa Bay area. I’m goofy, outspoken, empathetic, and never afraid to be fully myself. I specialize in lifestyle, wedding, portrait, and branding photography that’s rooted in authenticity, connection, and storytelling. My goal is simple: to make people feel seen, celebrated, and completely at ease in front of the camera.
I launched Frances Design in 2020, right in the middle of a season that demanded courage and creativity. What started as a leap of faith quickly grew into a thriving business built on trust, artistry, and a whole lot of heart. I’m proudly self-taught, neurodivergent (ADHD), and driven by a deep love for people and their stories.
Frances Design isn’t just about taking beautiful photos; it’s about creating intentional, memory-rich experiences that reflect who you are. This business isn’t just mine—it’s a reflection of the incredible people I get to serve and the stories I’m trusted and honored to tell.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
“Powerful”—what a word to attach to a person. I’ve never really felt powerful myself. Confident? Yes. Determined? Absolutely. But true power? That’s not mine to claim. If there’s any strength in my story, it’s because of God. I didn’t get here on my own—He carried me through every step, every season.
It might sound cliché, but it’s the truth. I’m far from perfect and I’m definitely no saint—I’m human, messy, and learning every day. But I believe in giving credit where it’s due. Any success, any impact I’ve made… it’s all because of Him.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
To suffer, to struggle, to fall flat on your face—that’s what makes success feel truly earned. There’s no real greatness in success without the stumbles that shape you along the way. It’s the messy, imperfect moments that give the victories their meaning.
I’m grateful for both the failures and the successes God has allowed me. Each one has taught me something, stretched me, and brought me closer to who I’m meant to be. And I’m sure there are more of both ahead—because growth doesn’t come without grace, and grace doesn’t come without a journey.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Oddly enough—and maybe surprisingly—yes. I don’t know how to be anything but myself. It’s a trait I consider both a gift and, at times, a challenge. I’m a mix of extrovert and introvert, so most people see the outgoing, animated side of me. But even then, I never hide who I am. What you see is always real, always me—quirks, depth, and all.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
The place I feel most at peace is outside in nature. My favorite spot? The beach just before sunset—when the sky glows soft and golden, my toes sink into the sand, and I’m staring out at endless waters that remind me how vast and beautiful this world really is.
I also find calm in wide open fields, where the air is fresh, the flowers are wild (even the ones we call weeds), and the only soundtrack is birds singing. It’s in those quiet places that I feel present & grounded. That’s where I breathe deeper, listen better, and remember what really matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.TheFrancesDesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefrancesphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheFrancesDesignPhotography
- Other: TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@francesdesignphotography
Google : https://share.google/qfLE99UO3X1nwdQpj
Image Credits
Frances Design Photography
