Check Out Tracee Gadson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracee Gadson. 

Hi Tracee, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi. My name is Tracee Gadson of Gadson Photography and Design. I was born and raised in Charleston, SC. When I was a little girl, my mom would sit and draw with me. Drawing people from photographs and creating images fascinated me so much that I took art classes every school year. I loved visual arts but I had no idea that photography would become my greatest passion. I had never even considered it as something I was interested in. I ended up going to college for graphic design and photography was one of my electives. One day a friend of the family gave me an older professional camera. I remember thinking, maybe I can help photograph my friend’s wedding since I know her photographer. I had no idea where that thought came from. Looking back, I really believe it was God calling me to what I was really meant to do. I took my friend out for a test shoot, and my very first real photoshoot to make sure the camera actually worked. I was so surprised at how well the pictures came out and the emotion that showed in the images. After I helped to photograph her wedding, I began doing engagement sessions and weddings for friends at church. Later, I spent five years working at a professional studio as a graphic designer and photography assistant. Eventually, the photographer would send me out to shoot weddings on my own. From that time on I’ve not been able to imagine myself doing anything else. I’ll be celebrating 22 years of photography this summer. Although I still photograph portraits, weddings and couples are what I am most passionate about.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely has not been a smooth road. Becoming a photographer wasn’t necessarily about starting my own business. It was about my love for creating. So, the business side of things has been a challenge. I’m still working on things like learning how to market myself and finding my ideal client who loves creative, fun, boho-inspired sessions. Right now, my biggest challenge has been re-branding and redesigning my entire website to reflect more of the style of photography that I love. 

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’m a natural light couples photographer specializing in weddings, lifestyle, and anniversary photography and I love prints! Real-life, hold in your hand, tangible memories at your fingertips and I offer custom printed products and albums to help make those memories last even longer. I believe that love is a journey that doesn’t end when a couple gets married. That’s why I also offer styled anniversary sessions. I feel the most creative when I get to style a session with cakes, bouquets and a custom picnic setup specifically for each couple, to help them celebrate milestone moments. What am I known for? I’m known for creating images with warm, natural colors that display authentic, genuine emotions. When potential clients reach out to me they often tell me that they love how sharp and clear my images look and how natural the couples look in them. I’m most proud of how as a photographer I’ve gained confidence in who God created me to be. I’m an introvert, but when it comes to shooting a wedding or making connections with vendors for a shoot, I’ve learned to speak up and take initiative for the things that are necessary to give my couples the best experience possible. I’m also proud of how I’ve learned to trust my creative vision. My creative vision and my background in visual arts are what sets me apart from others. I can develop an entire styling vision starting with just one color or outfit and build from there, while keeping my couple’s personality and love story in mind. Another thing that sets me apart is how much I love love. It helps me to capture that emotion in a way that can truly be felt even after the moment is gone.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson that I’ve learned is that my success isn’t measured by other people’s definition of success. I’m successful if I’m doing what I was created to do and living out my purpose. 

Contact Info:

• Email: gadsonphotography@gmail.com
• Website: https://gadsonphotography.smugmug.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gadsonphotographyanddesign

Image Credits
Signature Arrangements Florist
Twisted Whisk Wholesale Bakery