We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Austin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve honestly tried so many ways to bring money in from home. I’ve tried my hand at cake decorating, multi level marketing gigs, etc. Nothing ever seemed to help much, or even bring me joy. It hit me one day, early last year, I am always taking pictures of everything….why not photography?
I bought my camera, a Nikon D3500, from my friend and mentor, Madelyn Lett, of Madelyn Lett Photography, and the rest is history.
 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always loved photography. Even from a young age. One of my most memorable gifts was an old camera I received for Christmas one year, from my late uncle. When I started taking pictures, I started receiving comments from family members about how I had a “good eye.” One of my other uncles even told me I needed to get into photography. At the time, I ignored it. Only took pictures when I wanted to and documented my children growing, but never took it any further.
Back then, I always enjoyed finding the beauty in nature, then it grew into trying to take the best possible pictures of my kids. I guess, where I’ve always been my own main photographer, I’ve gained a lot of patience with photographing children and small families, so far, but would like to grow my business by adding other genres of photography as well, such as weddings, newborn, etc.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Our town is rather small, but there are still several thing that would be fun, for even myself, to try out! I would say, one of the best places around here to eat, would have to be That Little Pork Shop. They have some of the most yummy food, including what they call the Trash Plate. It’s best with teriyaki sauce and bacon!
Since I am a mom, one place to go and hang out would be Freedom Park to walk the track or simply let the kids play on the playground. Matrimony Creek Trail would also be one of my go to’s for a nature walk.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Madelyn Lett, of Madelyn Lett Photography. She has been, not only an awesome mentor, but also a good friend.

Website: https://wakephotography58.pixieset.com/

Instagram: @wakephotography5680

Facebook: WAKE Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.