Conversations with Annette McNamara

Today we’d like to introduce you to Annette McNamara. Them and their team share their story with us below:

In Sept 2018, long-time photographer Annette McNamara had an idea for her own photoshoot. Growing up she struggled with her self-image and allowed other’s negative words to affect how she saw herself.

Beautiful Strength was born out of a need to say those struggles out loud and finally accept herself for who she was. No filters, no photoshop, just her and her words. That one idea blossomed into an initial shoot that consisted of 45 people, and from there it launched a wonderful ripple effect.

Little did she know that throwing this positivity out into the world would connect to a bigger purpose… the need for ALL people, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, religion, political views, economic status, whatever… to be heard and have a chance to connect with others. By telling our stories, adding in some humor, being honest about how difficult life can be, and how resilient we can be at overcoming what life throws at us, we all can connect and become better human beings. The more we communicate with an open heart and open ears, the better the world will be.

Annette never could have imagined that one shoot would lead to so many awesome stories and connections. She believes everyone deserves to be told I see you, you are beautiful, strong, and loved. At the start of this project in September 2018, Annette had the vision to take Beautiful Strength mobile. Her dream of converting a school bus into a tiny home/photo studio that could travel across the US photographing stories of resilient human beings on the road came to life in late 2019.

Atticus, a 40’ wheelchair-accessible school bus was purchased and the challenge began. The bus was built out with the help of many friends throughout 2020 and we hit the road in Spring 2021. Annette left Nashville on April 9th, 2021, and has been on quite an adventure. So far she has covered over 18,000 miles, 21 states, and taken over 600 portraits on the bus.

She is back in Nashville for two months and then hit the road again on November 8th with a goal to take this project to all 50 states before the end of 2022.

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?
Heck no! Lol being a business owner is super difficult. Being a creative, empath, and wanting to help everyone and a business owner seems to be even more of a challenge.

I have owned my own photography business for over 10 years… but launching a nonprofit is a whole other beast. There is a ton of legalities to follow, a lot to learn, and you want to make something that transcends just yourself and lasts forever. Plus before you can get the funding you have to prove that what you do has value. So it’s been three years of hard work and dedication but I LOVE IT!

Building the bus out was also the most challenging thing I’ve ever done in my life. I literally built a home and photo studio out of an old Williamson county school bus! Without quarantine and a ton of help. This dream would not b a reality!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have been a photographer since 2007. Specializing in portraits. I love people! I moved to Nashville to photograph bands and musicians, which I have done. And I love it.

Working with other creatives and trying to come up with something different and producing shoots is always fun. I’ve shot weddings and senior portraits. I’ve done branding for small and large businesses. I’ve covered a lot of large events and I’ve continued to do family portraits. I’ve done a lot! I like the thrill of being able to take a camera anywhere and boom there’s a person and a moment I can freeze… forever!

Since starting the nonprofit, I’ve become more well known as a photographer. And it’s even more awesome because I get to see the inner rockstar in everyone!

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Intern if you can and go to school for business. Working with people you admire is inspirational and can lead to lifelong relationships. Always be open to learning and readily available to jump into the action.

Learn as much as you can about the technical side of your art and then try to stretch the rules as much as possible. Half the time it isn’t about the art or business at all… it’s about how you make people feel and the relationships you build with others that sustain your business and builds your clientele. No matter how big you get, always stay humble and kind. If you have a chance to mentor someone or teach someone your skill do it. Never be so into the business that you lose your creative side.

Focus on providing a beneficial service to people and the money will come. And there is enough money and clients out there for everyone. Stop, collaborate, and listen, just kidding.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: Www.beautifulstrength.org
• Instagram: @beautifulstrength_bus
• Facebook: Beautiful Strength