Today, we’d like to introduce you to Omaria McCrae.
Omaria, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Since I was young, I’ve been drawn to creativity, always eager to explore different ways of expressing myself. I remember receiving my first camera at Christmas, a Nikon Coolpix s200. Back then, I had no idea that this gift would spark a passion for photography that would shape my future. During my final year of undergrad, I enrolled in a photography elective course that introduced me to the art of capturing moments. Under the guidance of a supportive professor, I honed my skills and even gained experience developing films in a darkroom. However, as life progressed, I put my photography passion on hold to focus on my career.
My professional journey began in child welfare, where I dedicated five years to advocating for children and families. This work was fulfilling, tapping into my natural empathy and ability to connect with others. Yet, alongside my career, I always felt a pull towards entrepreneurship. After completing my graduate studies, I couldn’t resist the allure of photography any longer. In 2018, I decided to invest in my first professional camera. With determination and support from loved ones, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery behind the lens.
I realize now that my entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured long before I understood its meaning. Those Saturday mornings spent assisting my aunt with household chores and yard sales unknowingly planted the seeds of business acumen within me. However, venturing into entrepreneurship proved to be both challenging and rewarding. Building a small business demands patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. With the unwavering support of my husband and family, I weathered the storms and celebrated every victory along the way.
In 2022, I took a significant step forward by becoming a full-time wedding photographer. Alongside refining my craft, I prioritized building meaningful connections and expanding my network within the industry. Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for every experience that has led me to this point. Each lesson has shaped me, fueling my passion for photography. As I continue to pursue my dreams, I am excited for the adventures ahead for Omaria McCrae Photography!
We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey hasn’t been smooth sailing. There have been numerous days filled with trial and error, moments where I felt defeated, and times when I struggled to define my unique value to clients. One of my biggest challenges is learning not to underestimate myself while staying grounded in humility. Patience has been a significant struggle for me.
In today’s fast-paced society, where we’re bombarded with images of instant success on social media, it’s easy to lose sight of the time and effort required for meaningful progress. Staying consistent has also been tough. However, I’ve managed to overcome these obstacles by investing in my photography education, dedicating myself to improving and focusing on delivering the best possible experience for my clients. Trusting the process has become essential in navigating the ups and downs of this journey.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a professional wedding and portrait photographer, focusing primarily on traditional and destination weddings. My expertise lies in capturing genuine moments of love through a blend of candid shots and carefully composed images.
I pride myself on providing couples with an elevated wedding and portrait experience that reflects their unique connection and personality. My commitment to crafting timeless and authentic photographs that couples can cherish and my dedication to providing an unforgettable experience sets me apart.
What do you think about happiness?
What makes me genuinely happy is embracing diversity, immersing myself in various cultures, and appreciating the beauty found in intricate details. I find joy in making genuine connections with people and exploring new destinations. Shifting gears in my career and taking the leap into entrepreneurship was a big move, driven by my desire to pursue my dreams.
However, what truly fulfills me is capturing individuals in their raw, authentic selves. Being present throughout an entire wedding day, witnessing the overflowing joy, love, and cherished traditions, touches my heart profoundly. Those genuine moments and emotions fuel my passion and bring me immense happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://omariamccrae.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omariamccraephotography
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/omariamccraephotography
