Meet Veronica Dearborn of Grand Rapids

Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Dearborn.

Hi Veronica, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I picked up a camera in 2014, when I was 14. I would photograph nature scenes, animals, sunsets, really anything that caught my eye. In 2017, I started to take things more seriously by photographing people and starting a “business” during my senior year of high school. I photographed several friends’ senior photos for the yearbook. I began to meet other photographers in the area and had plenty of opportunities to shadow, second-shoot weddings, or take on opportunities for free like photographing my friend’s band. I would also often photograph my late father’s band at a local bar, which helped me add to my live music portfolio.

I attended Kendall College of Art and Design from 2018-2022, earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts. My skills grew, as did my client base. I continued to photograph portraits, weddings, and events outside of my fine art photography work.

2022 presented me with my current dream, though part-time. I became one of the in-house photographers for GLC Live at 20 Monroe, and an occasional photographer for Local Spins. I have been so fortunate to photograph bands I’ve loved since middle school, like Pierce the Veil, as well as other big names like Chappell Roan, Knocked Loose, Dogstar, and many more. I am excited for what 2o25 has in store for me!

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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Life has definitely gotten in the way. Attracting clients is not easy, especially when I just don’t have as much time as I would like to devote to that. Juggling my freelance portrait work, GLC shows, and my full-time job can get pretty crazy during the busier months for the industry. It can be pretty hard to get ahold of me during the Fall season!

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I don’t consider myself a jack of all trades, but I have a few main interests that are a little all over the place. The majority of my paid work consists of portraits–so senior photos, engagements, and family photos. I adore capturing the love, personalities, and connections between clients and highlighting what makes everybody so unique. I will occasionally photograph a special event or wedding as well, though it is not my specialty.

Live Music Photography for GLC Live at 20 Monroe is definitely something I am very proud of. I feel extremely grateful for the opportunity to document stunning performances that allow viewers to relive their favorite moments, or for those who couldn’t attend to still see their favorite artists up close and personal.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Figure out what you can do to set yourself apart. In markets like West Michigan, the photography market is quite oversaturated. Using a brighter editing style and bold, colorful branding has allowed me to attract new clients. Inclusivity is also super important to me, so I’ve made sure to put that right up on my contact page on my website. I believe that everybody should have access to a photographer who values them no matter their identity or background.

Pricing:

• 30 Minute Portrait Session $150
• 60 Minute Portrait Session $300
• Live Music Coverage by Inquiry Only

Contact Info:

• Website: https://veronicaannphoto.com
• Instagram: instagram.co/veronicaannphoto
• Facebook: facebook.co/veronicaannphoto