Meet Meribeth Strickland | Newborn and Maternity Photographer

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

Hi Meribeth, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Self motivation and constant eduction are the keys to the success in my business. Being self employed means there is no one setting my schedule or following up on deadlines which sounds amazing AT FIRST! However, as you dive deeper into your business, you realize there is no one holding you accountable and that means it can be easier to slack off a bit. Letting things slide is not good for business, so I quickly learned I had to motivate myself to work EVERY day and set deadlines for myself which I had to meet. Working my business and devoting time to it has allowed it to grow and flourish. Along with the self motivation comes education. I could run a moderately successful business based on the knowledge I currently have, but if I want my business to grow, I have to continue to learn and grow. I set time aside each month to focus on educating myself on new trends, styles and techniques. If I am not investing in myself and striving to improve, who will? I am very intentional with my time and ensure my business is getting what it needs to be healthy and strong. Intentionality leads the success!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a newborn and maternity photographer. When I started photography, I did NOT want to work with babies. They scared me. But I embraced the fear and jumped in head first learning as much as I could. I would not trade my career for anything!

I get to snuggle cute babies and capture the happiest moments in people’s lives. In my portraits, I strive to make these babies and their families the center point. I am a more minimalistic, monochromatic photographer. I want the baby to be what you see when you look at my portraits.

Finding this style has not been easy. A person can easily be pulled into the newest trends and styles, but it is important to find where your passion is and carve out your own little space. I always have improvements that can be made, but I think I have finally defined my style. And let’s be honest, I get to snuggle cute babies all day – what could be more fun?

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It’s Greenville! They have to see Falls Park- isn’t that a requirement??

I love the outdoors and nature. I think taking my bestie to Devil’s fork would be a must. It has such beauty and peace. Maybe a little kayaking or hiking while there would be a good addition.
A trip to bald rock and pretty place for the views should also be scheduled!!

But for the nightlife, a trip to the peace center for a show and a burger at Grill Marks is a favorite for our family. Walking in the market street lights downtown is always beautiful as well.

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?
In photography, as many other fields, competition can breed negativity among the group. I firmly believe in community over competition. I have three people who have come along side me to help me become better and helped build my business while also building theirs. I think this is a unique trait and should be recognized.

Marshall Terry of Marshall Graham photography has pushed me to try new and different techniques.

Melissa Nocks and Emily Moncus are both newborn/maternity photographers who truly demonstrate community of competition. We share war stories, build each other up, act as assistants for each other and promote each other’s businesses.

I am truly blessed by these three people.

Website: Www.myheartsdesirephotography.com

Instagram: @myheartsdesirephoto

Facebook: Www.facebook.com/myheartsdesirephotographt