Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire Smith
Hi Claire, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey with photography began as a young girl in AZ, always capturing moments and treasuring the beauty of life. A pivotal experience came during a trip with my grandparents, where I chose photography as a hobby and learned the fundamentals from a professional on a trip to Vail, Colorado. That spark turned into a lifelong passion, further fueled by my time at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, where I studied Marketing, played volleyball, and deepened my faith. With the support of my family, I’ve turned what I thought would be a hobby into a fulfilling career. Today, I cherish connecting with clients, telling their stories through my lens, and celebrating life’s special moments. These moments span from weddings, to families, and even graduation photos. Photography has become my way of helping people feel seen, and I’m thrilled to continue growing, traveling, and capturing memories.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Balancing my photography business alongside a full-time job and evening commitments has been a challenge, especially as I work toward pursuing wedding photography full-time. Building local connections with venues and vendors from scratch wasn’t something I learned in school, but it’s a skill I continue to practice and push myself to improve. While the transition comes with its share of doubts—a feeling many small business owners can relate to—it has reaffirmed how much I love what I do and how deeply I care about my clients and my work. Being in an industry filled with incredible photographers has shifted my mindset from competition to appreciation. I’ve learned there’s room for everyone, and instead of comparing myself to others, I find inspiration and guidance from them. My focus is on creating genuine connections and spreading positivity and joy through a shared passion.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a wedding and portrait photographer passionate about capturing life’s most meaningful moments and helping people feel truly seen. I specialize in weddings, engagements, family sessions, and branding photography, creating a personalized experience that highlights each client’s unique story. My approach is rooted in building strong relationships with my clients—taking the time to get to know them, understanding their vision, and maintaining open and reliable communication every step of the way.
What sets me apart is my commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. From the first inquiry to the final delivery of photos, I prioritize making the experience seamless, fun, and stress-free. I’m most proud of the connections I’ve built with my clients and the trust they place in me to document their special moments. For me, photography is not just about taking beautiful images but about forming genuine relationships, creating a space where clients feel comfortable, and capturing memories they’ll treasure forever.
What’s next?
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to continue growing my photography business, with a focus on weddings, engagements, and family sessions. A major milestone is just around the corner as I transition into full-time wedding photography this winter—a step I’m incredibly excited about. This change will allow me to fully dedicate myself to my passion and provide my clients with the best possible experience. I’m also focused on expanding my network by building meaningful connections with local wedding venues and vendors, fostering lasting partnerships within the industry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clairesmithphotography.com
- Instagram: @claiiresmith
- Facebook: Claire Smith Photos
Image Credits
Claire Smith Photography
