Daily Inspiration: Meet Ayla McCants

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayla McCants.

Hi Ayla, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am Ayla, and I LOVE to inspire, influence, and create beautiful things. I am an artist by nature — creating works of art such as paintings and drawings since I can remember. I constructed my first garment, a denim skirt with a matching crop top, by hand in middle school.

Yes, denim was life for millennials like myself at one phase. In addition to that, I picked up my first camera when I attended Alabama A&M University for my undergraduate degree. It’s so difficult to describe that joy I feel when I’m able to look at a finished product that literally began as a vision I probably had in the shower.

My intense passion for photography began unexpectedly. I chose to learn more about photography in order to create a marketing promotion for my fashion collection; I have not put my camera down since then. Following the release of my images for my fashion collection, I was asked by friends and family to capture their family portraits. Before I knew it, I was booking weddings and engagement sessions.

I soon realized that I loved every aspect of photography! I enjoy the experiences with new clients, editing the images, and planning the concept of each session; it was all fascinating! I consider myself an infinite learner in everything that I do, and I attend workshops to further strengthen my skills in order to continue to level up the experience as well as a quality product.

Curating bespoke imagery that resonates specifically with each client allows me to give my clients exactly what they’re looking for in a session. I am also able to use my love for fashion within the photography experience since I construct and personalize most of the outfits for my photography clients.

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?
My road to Jade Anthoni Photography has been full of twists and turns and I wouldn’t change the experiences for anything.

I have moved several times throughout the years and although starting over in a new city and attempting to attract new clients has not always been easy; I have learned valuable lessons which has ultimately prepared me for my current relocation back to Tennessee.

I am no longer discouraged by being in a new place, I am always connected with the most perfect clients.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the owner and professional photographer for Jade Anthoni Photography. I freeze and preserve beautiful moments of my clients’ lives so that they have a piece of art to hold for the rest of their lives and the generations to follow.

I specialize in all things motherhood (maternity, newborn, baby milestones up to 1 year, and mommy and me). I do enjoy capturing much more than the genre listed; however, my personal life has truly allowed me to connect with mothers and babies in a way that yields results that are particularly beautiful.

Coincidentally, I consider myself a creator; however, for over 6 years, I was unsure if I would ever get the opportunity to create life with my dear husband. My 6-year journey to motherhood has given me a unique perspective; I use my experience to create timeless portraits for the families I work with.

There are many things that I love about photography but I’ll share my FAVORITE thing about my career. I love the fact that I see the moments I’ve captured over the years being used by my clients over and over!

That has always been my wish, for my clients to have a beautiful piece of art that will transport them back in time to the wonderful time in their life I’ve been blessed to document. Each year on mother’s day, father’s day, a child’s birthday, or a client’s wedding anniversary, I see images that take me back to the day I had a session with that client.

I love every one of my clients and the experiences we’ve shared.

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?

Something surprising that most people do not know is that I actually enjoy being in front of the camera almost as much as I enjoy being behind the camera!

Most photographers do not enjoy having their portraits taken, but for me, one of the most beautiful aspects of the career I’ve chosen is the ability to see yourself in the many pieces of art that tell the stories of your life long after you’re gone. I love looking at old photos of family that I know and grew up with, as well as family members of the past that I was never able to meet. Knowing that I can capture and print milestones of my family’s life is one of my greatest joys, and I do so often. I love collecting snapshots of these moments in time just as much for myself as I do for my amazing clients.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jadeanthonidesigns/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JadeAnthoni

Image Credits
Jade Anthoni Photography