Today we’d like to introduce you to Mahfam Braithwaite.
Hi Mahfam, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Fredericksburg, VA, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Tech. I have a husband, two fur babies (Simba and Dumbo), and a parrot. You can probably guess that I’m a huge Disney fan!
I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures but never really took it seriously as a career until a few years ago. Before then, I only saw it as a hobby – a hobby that I very much enjoyed, nevertheless.
I would always borrow my mom’s camera to take pictures of friends and family whenever I had to time off from my day-to-day job working in the Dental industry.
When I first met my husband, he would often tell me how talented he thought I was and was constantly encouraging me to start my own photography business. For our first Christmas together, he bought me my very own camera which I use to this day. I don’t think I’ll ever let it go! My husband is my biggest cheerleader.
From that moment on, I’ve tried my hardest to make a successful go of being a photographer. I make sure that I stay relevant on everything related to photography – attending classes, reading articles, and of course, taking photographs!
I started my photography business in 2018 and haven’t looked back since. I am also an influencer and digital marketing manager, working with other companies to improve their social media and increase their engagement.
Companies have started to now reach out inquiring about social media coaching too! We are now moving to Florida and I am so excited to serve FL, VA, and worldwide! I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
There have been some challenges along the way. The first hurdle was attracting clients, which is very difficult when you have minimal experience.
Luckily, I had a lot of friends and family that allowed me to take pictures of them in the beginning, and therefore gain that valuable experience. Those same friends and family members referred me to other people they knew, and my client base has continued to grow ever since. Word-of-mouth is so important in this industry.
The second challenge was trying to run a successful business alongside your regular job. It’s important that I dedicate time during the weeknights and at weekends to ensure my clients are happy and I make it a priority to do so. I am now concentrating on photography and blogging full-time.
I absolutely love what I do. Do not ever give up on your dreams.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I mostly specialize in weddings, portraits, and other events, but am always willing to take on new opportunities and challenges. I also work with local businesses, taking photographs and managing their social media. My photography style is “light and airy”, and I love chasing the sun.
My proudest moment was reaching 10,000 followers on my photography/blogging page on Instagram. I was so excited when I hit that milestone. I didn’t stop there though! My follower count is now almost 24K and I’m so excited to see how far I can go. I separated my photography and blogging two months ago. Now I have two Instagrams and I’m growing in both accounts.
My clients recognize me as friendly and outgoing with a constant smile on my face. I believe that all my clients should receive first-class treatment and it’s my goal to provide that. In case you would like to follow me: My photography account: is @mahfamphotography and my blogging account: is @mahfambraithwaite.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I believe you should never give up on your dreams. Failure is something people fear. Little do they know, this is one of the most significant ways we learn and grow!
If we can learn anything from these successful people, it would be to never give up on our dreams simply because of fear of failure. If you believe that you can succeed, then do not listen to anyone who says otherwise.
With persistence, discipline, and faith in yourself, you can reach far. I hope this helps you to be more motivated and try more to reach your goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mahfamphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mahfamphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mahfamphotographyllc
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/mahfambraithwaite/
Image Credits
@mahfamphotography
Roya Javaherchi
July 22, 2022 at 3:29 am
Such a great story and thank you for sharing. I loved this part a lot :
“I believe you should never give up on your dreams. Failure is something people fear. Little do they know, this is one of the most significant ways we learn and grow!”
Wish you more success and growth.