Life & Work with Andrea Reid of Higgins Lake, Michigan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Reid

Hi Andrea, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am a born and raised Michigander and I am the photographer behind the lens at Drea Reid Photography. I am a Family, Newborn and Wedding photographer with a few other random things thrown in there. I travel all over the great state of Michigan capturing the special and unique.
I am a Mother, Stepmother and a “Young” Gigi ( 40 something is still young, right?); partnered with a man who supports me to no end and leaves his clothes everywhere but the laundry basket! We have a large, blended and boisterous family with 7 children between the 2 of us (all fantastic adults) . Two of those adults are now married with children, and that’s where the Gigi part comes in. Being upgraded to Gigi has been the best adventure so far.
I initially dipped my toes into the world of photography in the early 2000s, focusing on sports events and capturing cherished moments from my kids’ school activities. Life and the priorities of raising a family briefly pressed pause on my journey.
Rekindling my passion in recent years, I have discovered a profound love for capturing the unexpected. Through my lens, I honor the memory of my youngest son, who, despite his inner struggles, taught me strength and love. Each photo tells a story of hope, healing, and the importance of cherishing every fleeting moment. When I click the shutter, it’s not just a photo; it’s a moment frozen in time.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Being a photographer in an oversaturated market has been my biggest challenge. With so many talented individuals offering similar services, it can be challenging to stand out and prove your value to potential clients. The constant pressure to differentiate your style, maintain competitive pricing, and keep up with evolving trends can be overwhelming. Additionally, social media platforms, while essential for marketing, can intensify the sense of competition and lead to imposter syndrome as you compare your work to others. For myself and many photographers, the love of capturing meaningful moments keeps me going, but balancing creativity with the need to run a profitable business in such a crowded space requires resilience, adaptability, and a steadfast belief in your unique vision.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in wedding and family photography and it has been one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. My proudest moments have come from capturing cherished memories for clients who trust me time and time again for their most important milestones. What sets me apart is my deep understanding of life’s fleeting nature, shaped by my own experiences with both profound joy and loss. Knowing that, in the end, all we have are the photos left behind drives me to create images that truly capture the essence of a moment. My goal is to give my clients something timeless—memories they can hold close forever, no matter how life changes.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Risk-taking in photography is essential for growth and creativity. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone—whether that means trying new techniques, experimenting with lighting, or capturing unconventional angles. Some of the most powerful images come from moments of uncertainty, where you trust your instincts and embrace the unknown. Risk-taking also applies to the business side, like investing in new equipment, marketing strategies, or pursuing projects that push your boundaries. While it can feel intimidating, every risk carries the potential for a breakthrough, transforming your work into something truly unique and deeply personal. Without taking risks, photography becomes routine, but with it, it becomes art.

Pricing:

• Weddings start at $1800
• Family Sessions start at $275

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.dreareidphotography.com
• Instagram: https://Www.instagram.com/dreareidphotography
• Facebook: https://Www.facebook.com/dreareidphotographyllc