Check Out Mary Foley’s Story

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Mary Foley.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I used to walk past an abandoned photography studio on my way to school in 8th grade. I imagined one day having my own, even though I didn’t know the first thing about photography then. My interest eventually led me to do some modeling for some local photographers.

I’m sure anyone I worked with could tell I was far more interested in their side of the camera from my many questions at any shoot. In high school, I was able to take Photo Imaging courses and participate in the school yearbook several years in a row, which gave me the kickstart I was looking for.

I started photographing events, and by my senior year, I was taking senior portraits of some of my classmates. I’m forever thankful to Mrs. Manning, my Photo Imaging teacher and yearbook supervisor, for the time and care she put into instructing me during those years. More importantly, I’m grateful to her for believing in me when I sometimes didn’t believe in myself.

After school, photography became more of a hobby to me until a little over a year ago, when I decided to go all in on my dream and see where it would take me. Today, I’m proud to say that I am working hard towards becoming a full-time photographer and more driven than ever.

Over just this past year, I have met and collaborated with many amazing local creatives, been published internationally (twice!), and been blessed with many incredible clients and memories that I’ll cherish forever. I know I’ve just started, and I am excited to see where this journey will take 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?
I remember being told once that if you are meant to do something, it will come easily and naturally to you. As I’ve grown, I don’t find that to be true at all. The reward is in the triumph of overcoming the struggle. I know now that what is meant for me isn’t ‘easy,’ but it’s a struggle I’m happy to face. As much joy as photography brings me, there are rough days.

I struggle with feeling hopeless when I’m not immediately good at something, and it is a fight to overcome that way of thinking. My strive for perfection is truly a double-edged sword in that I always want to keep learning and improving the way I do things, but I also feel like I can never do enough for my clients. I’ll get done with a gallery, hop on Instagram for some doom scrolling, and immediately see a photo set that makes me second-guess my countless hours of work. Those struggles aside, I know it’s crucial that I remind myself why I do this and who this is all for.

What makes it all worth it to me is hearing the kind praise from my customers when they receive their galleries, the little moments at shoots where I see the joy in their faces and know they feel comfortable being themselves, and seeing them share their photos online with loved ones. At the end of the day, I truly love to see people happy and comfortable in their skin, and I will take on any of the hard days that come my to continue to achieve that.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a photographer that specializes in portrait and event photography. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients at every stage of collaboration before and during shoots to ensure I capture them exactly as they envision while showcasing each unique personality in every gallery I deliver.

I’ve grown from various creative backgrounds, which have given me the ability to remain flexible and versatile in my shooting styles and capabilities, even behind the scenes. A great example of this calls back to my brief stint at cosmetology school, where I was able to do hair and makeup for various photoshoots and shows!

Networking and finding a mentor can positively impact one’s life and career. Any advice?
Use social media as a tool rather than a distraction. Easier said than done, I know! But I promise, it will change everything for you the more you utilize it professionally.

Reach out to people who inspire you, ask to meet up for coffee, or if they have time for even a phone call, and have questions prepared. Ask to collaborate. The worst thing people can say is “no.” You will hear many “no’s,” but it’s the “yes” that you should focus on.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://clickbabekc.pixpa.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/click.babe/