Today we’d like to introduce you to Mallory Haren
Hi Mallory, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my photography business back in 2012. At that time. I was in college studying to be a teacher, but quickly had the realization that my heart and passion was with photography. I took a leap of faith and poured everything I had into building my business from the ground up. I made the difficult decision not to continue with the credential program that I was in, and only focus on photography. I started with portraits and headshots, but soon learned that I wanted to make my way into weddings —and that is exactly what I did! I am so happy I decided to take that leap of faith because now I can’t imagine doing anything else —I have definitely found my passion!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Thinking back on the past 12 years, I feel incredibly grateful for the clients I have had the honor of working with. I have also met some incredible vendors in the wedding industry along the way, which has created such a valuable support system for me. However, starting a business is never easy, and there are always challenges that will come your way. It is how you deal with those challenges that matter. It takes very hard work and an intense drive from within that can not be dimmed. I have always been very strong-willed, which I feel has truly helped me in my career. When I have fallen down, I get back up again. When I want to achieve something, I try my best to find a way to get there.
The pandemic was a one challenging time that comes to mind. 2020 was also the year I became a mother, so a lot shifted and changed regarding my business. But no matter what, that passion for photography has never wavered. And I believe that passion is the main driver towards success.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a fine art film wedding photographer based out of Southern California. My preferred choice of medium to work with is film. I mainly shoot with a Contax 645 and a couple different film stocks (Fuji 400h and Portra 400). Film forces me to be very intentional with how I shoot and I really take my time to compose each shot. I believe this sets me apart from other wedding photographers. Clients tend to hire me because they know I shoot film and are really drawn to the process and aesthetic. This means the world to me since I am so passionate about shooting film.
Before becoming a photographer, I was actually studying to be a teacher, so I do really value education and have found a way to add it to my business today. I strongly believe in sharing knowledge within the photography community. Teaching is a huge passion of mine, and it is always an honor when I get to help other photographers work towards their goals and dreams. I have mentorship programs that were created for other photographers looking to grow their businesses or perfect their craft. I also have written an e-book where I walk through a full wedding day with me, beginning to end. It includes 50+ pages of in-depth content covering a variety of topics such as: my pre-wedding checklist, extensive gear list (film and digital), styling tools and tips, tackling portraits efficiently and effortlessly, lighting, composition & posing guide, and much more! It is available in my SHOP on my website (www.mallorydawn.com/shop).
My work can be found in a variety of wedding publications such as BRIDES, Style Me Pretty, Wedding Sparrow, Inside Weddings, Magnolia Rouge and many more.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mallorydawn.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mallorydawnphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mallorydawnphotography
Image Credits
Mallory Dawn Photography
