Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Upton.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Photography has been a part of my life since I was a teenager. My mother was a professional photographer — the first in our family — and I had the privilege of working alongside her in high school as her second shooter. We photographed everything from school pictures at our local middle, junior high, and high schools to studio sessions, weddings, and even class reunions.
Over time, I fell in love with the way photography could freeze a moment and make people feel confident, seen, and celebrated. In 2009, I officially opened my own studio. I started by photographing families, seniors, and children in our small town of Union, South Carolina. As my business grew, I found my niche in the world of pageantry — capturing headshots and covering major pageant events.
Now, I travel across the country — and even internationally — to photograph clients, but I still live on our family farm here in South Carolina. I’m proud to say my youngest daughter is now following in my footsteps, becoming the third generation in our family to carry on the photography tradition.
This business has allowed me to provide for my family, be present for my children, and help girls and women of all ages feel their most beautiful and confident selves. Every client I work with becomes like family, and that’s something I never take for granted.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped me into who I am — both as a photographer and as a woman.
In the early days, I spent too much time comparing myself to other photographers, trying to “compete” in a saturated market. But I quickly learned that my only real competition was who I was yesterday. Once I focused on growing my own voice and style — not anyone else’s — my business truly began to flourish.
When I opened my studio in 2009, my daughters were just 7, 3, and 1. Balancing motherhood and a growing business was not always easy. My girls often traveled with me for sessions or spent time in the studio while I worked. Those moments may have been chaotic at times, but they’re some of their most cherished childhood memories — and mine too. I believe watching me work so hard inspired them, and now they’re all successful in their own paths.
There have been financial ups and downs — photography has seasons, and I had to learn to accept that. In slower seasons, I’ve learned to rest instead of panic, and trust that the next busy wave will come.
Early on, I was told by a family member that photography wouldn’t provide a real living. I’ve proven otherwise — it’s provided far more than I ever imagined and has given me the freedom to build a life I love. That said, I’ve also learned some lessons the hard way, like the time both my computer and backup drive crashed — and I lost several client sessions. Ever since, I back up my backups!
In 2020, I went through a divorce after 18 years of marriage. That was one of the hardest seasons of my life. I had to find strength not just for myself, but for my daughters. I threw myself into my work and found peace in continuing to create. Now, four years into a new, happy marriage, I’m supported in ways I never had before. My husband truly believes in my vision and encourages the growth of my business every step of the way.
Through it all, one of the greatest gifts photography has given me is community. Some of my closest friendships have come through this journey, and I’ll forever be grateful for that.
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 professional photographer based in Union, South Carolina, and I specialize in pageant headshots and event coverage, along with seniors, families, and children for my long-time clients. Over the years, I’ve become especially known for working with pageant contestants — from local titles all the way to national stages. I photograph major events like Miss South Carolina, Little Miss South Carolina, Miss American Coed, and Royalty USA Nationals, among others.
My headshot style blends natural lighting with a polished editorial feel — I want every client to look confident, powerful, and authentic. I’m most proud of the fact that my work helps young women feel beautiful and seen. For many girls, I’m there at the start of their pageant journey, and I often stay with them through high school, college, and even their wedding days. Watching them grow and knowing I’ve captured those milestones is incredibly meaningful to me.
What sets me apart is my experience, consistency, and how I treat every client like family. I’ve been in this business since 2009, but photography has been in my life for even longer. I bring a calm, encouraging energy to every session — especially important in pageants where confidence is key.
I also take pride in how quickly I deliver high-quality images. At multi-day events, my team and I often provide next-day delivery through facial recognition galleries, which my clients really value. I run a tight ship, but always with a smile.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to make people feel amazing and preserve the moments that matter most.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I believe risk is part of growth — and while I wouldn’t call myself naturally fearless, I’ve learned to trust myself more with every leap I take.
One of the biggest risks I ever took was starting my photography business full-time back in 2009. At the time, my daughters were small, and I didn’t have a clear roadmap or backup plan. People told me it wasn’t a “real” career, or that I wouldn’t be able to support my family — but I knew in my heart this was my calling. I took the leap anyway, and it’s grown into something bigger than I ever imagined.
Another major risk was navigating a divorce in 2020 after an 18-year marriage. I had to rebuild not just my personal life, but stay strong in my role as a mom and business owner. I kept working, kept showing up, and leaned into my business as a way to stay grounded. It taught me that sometimes the biggest risks are personal — but they can lead to incredible new chapters.
I’ve also taken creative and financial risks, like investing in new equipment, traveling for national clients, or expanding my services when it wasn’t a “safe” time. But I’ve learned that growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable. Some risks pay off, some don’t — but every single one teaches you something.
To me, risk means believing in yourself even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed. It’s choosing faith over fear and being willing to bet on your own hard work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.uptonphoto.com
- Instagram: @amandauptonphotography
- Facebook: @amandauptonphotography
