Today we’d like to introduce you to Charli Crabtree.
Hi Charli, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I still vividly remember fumbling with a point-and-shoot camera when I was young. From the moment it was placed in my hands, I was hungry to catch fleeting moments—and that feeling never really left. For most of my life I’ve taken note of a moment worth capturing and made sure to snap it just in case. I often feel like maybe these photos are my form of a journal that I’ll leave behind. Because to photograph something is like pinning a moment in time to revisit later.
I knew there was something special in the ability to freeze time through photographs. But honestly, I never imagined turning it into a business. Photography isn’t exactly an untapped market—it had always been something I simply loved for myself. I’d long been drawn to the idea of owning my own business, but nothing I explored ever truly clicked. When the idea of a photography business was brought about, I was met with a mix of fear and self-belief.
I worried about diving into an oversaturated industry, about whether there was space, or even a need, for another photographer. But I also believed in my ability to make people smile, help them feel comfortable, and create something meaningful in the process. The belief in myself and what I could offer, beyond just photos, outweighed any fear and eventually I decided to take the jump and begin learning more so that I could truly give my best.
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?
The deepest struggle I’ve found through this business is the self-questioning. I think most creatives, who are also essentially contracting out their creativity, find themselves battling the desire to please those they’re serving, while also staying true to their expression.
When creativity and business coincide, it can cause a wrestling within yourself. I want to produce what people are looking for, but I also know that authenticity in any craft will ultimately produce something good and worth believing in. In time I’ve learned that simply trusting myself and being excellence-driven can and should coexist. By creating images that resonate with me, it gives me confidence that the client, along with whoever sees them, will also feel similiarly.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When most of us think about getting family photos, or any photos, done—it can feel burdensome, stressful, and downright unpleasant. Those with kids will understand where I’m coming from. We all want photos that capture us at our best, most comfortable state. But, that’s often not the case when you try to have multiple kids, or even just one, stand still & smile for more than three seconds, while you’re also you’re sweating through your shirt. It’s a feeling that some of us know and cringe at.
My approach to the entire experience is that it doesn’t have to, and shouldn’t, feel that way. When it comes to family sessions, that’s truly where I feel like I hear a whistle blow and it’s game time. I have a strong mission to ensure that everyone, especially the kids, know that how they’re feeling is valid, but we can laugh through it and actually make some sweet memories along the way. I want mom to be able to relax, and dad to break past his “cheese” smile. Simultaneously, I want the kids to know that they’re cherished, and they can be themselves in front of my camera.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
One thing I often talk about with others is that this business can feel so isolating. I love and thrive in a team setting. Sharing a common goal, keeping each other accountable, and camaraderie— unfortunately, you’re not going to have that when it’s you, your camera, and a laptop.
However I will say, I may have never taken the leap to start the business in the first place if it hadn’t been for the kindness of a friend and family member to share equipment with me so I could be sure I wanted to buy my own. Along with the guidance of my dad and my husband, who have been voices of reason and encouragement throughout the entire journey.
Social media has honestly been an incredibly helpful and informative tool. Yes it can be the prime place for comparison, but, it can also be the birthplace of inspiration and friendship with a fellow photographer a few towns, or states, over. Not to mention the endless amount of online course opportunities and those who offer individual coaching. I myself have taken courses and followed along with some of the teachings of those who I’ve found via social media. It is truly such a tool if used that way!
Pricing:
- Family Session P#1 — $350
- Family Session P#2 — $475
- First Year Milestone Sessions — $500 (4 shoots) *standalone sessions available*
- Newborn Sessions — $400
- Fresh 48 Session — $375
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @CharliCrabtreePhoto
