Check Out Rachel Barnum’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Barnum. 

Rachel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m Rachel, the owner and photographer at Rose Memories Photography LLC. As a kid, I loved taking pictures with disposable cameras and getting them developed as soon as I could. I bought my first digital camera when I was 9 with my allowance, and ever since then I’ve loved taking pictures of people, events, and my loved ones.   

In 2016, I graduated with honors from Saginaw Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts. I went on to become a reporter and social media manager for several years, I gained a lot of great experience and skills with the camera while learning the business side of things. 

In 2018, I started my family and while taking my kids’ pictures every month and having my own maternity photos done, I realized my true passion was for maternity, newborn, family, and special event photography. 

I started Rose Memories Photography LLC in 2020 and spent some time building my portfolio while learning about the industry and making connections. I absolutely love what I do and the people I get to meet along the way. I feel so grateful for this amazing business, which so far is everything I’ve always wanted from a career and has been so fulfilling for me. 

I’m now happy that I get to expand from Michigan and beyond to destination weddings and exciting new ventures! I truly can’t wait to see where this business takes me. 

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?
Rose Memories Photography opened just two months before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and when things shut down, this included photography businesses. This slowed me down for a while, but also gave me time to learn, practice, and make important business decisions before making things official. 

It can be hard to put yourself out there into a new industry and gain a positive influence in a competitive field. I struggled with confidence and imposter syndrome for some time, but with experience, time, and better equipment I found my niche and pushed forward.

Finding my vision and aesthetic took some time and I had to really focus to find myself, but once I did, my business immediately improved and I found myself with great new contacts and friends in the industry.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a natural light photographer in Mid-Michigan with many years of experience. Based around the Lansing and Ithaca areas, I often drive to many of the nearby scenic mitten locations or host sessions in one of several local studios. 

My photography prioritizes having fun, being comfortable, and having memories made to last a lifetime. If you’re looking for a photographer who feels like your best friend, you’re in the right place! 

I offer a wide range of services and specialize in maternity, engagement, and family photography and I love to make custom and unique sessions possible. 

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I recommend giving out free sessions to build your portfolio, and always network with other photographers in your area; they are your community, not your competition! Show everyone kindness, put yourself out there, and always be ready to try something new. 

Pricing:

• Mini-sessions as low as $100+
• Hourly sessions available starting at $150
• Studio & Outdoor options available
• Wedding packages for every budget

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rosememoriesphoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosememories_photography_llc/
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/rosememoriesphotography/

Image Credits
LWB Moments
Younge Photography
Kori Ruiz