Conversations with Cassie Schmidt

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassie Schmidt. 

Hi Cassie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis when I was 13 months old. Mainly the joints in my fingers, wrists, knees, and ankles are affected. I have also had issues with my jaw because of my arthritis, but the medicine that I am on helps control the pain and inflammation in my joints. When I was 3 years old my mom had me do a finger painting that she put in the silent auction at a fundraiser for arthritis. This was bought and entered into the live auction later that night and sold for about $400. This sparked an idea to create a fundraiser where kids with arthritis are paired up with mentor artists to create artwork that is auctioned off and raises money and awareness for kids with arthritis. The event is called Art for Arthritis and I participated for 11 years (until I was 14). This event is so close to my heart because I was paired with my mom every year I participated and it is the reason I love photography. Most years I would make abstract paintings, but the last year I decided to take my dad’s camera and take pictures of flowers at my local arboretum. I framed photos to be auctioned off and ended up selling 2 sets of photos for $7,000 total ($3,500 each) because two people were in a bidding war and my dad proposed that we print off a second set of pictures. All this being said, taking pictures of those flowers allowed me to find my love for photography. I have always loved picking up my dad’s camera and taking pictures of anything I could. In high school, I was always looking for different ways I could get involved with photography. I took a film photography class for 1.5 years, a broadcast class for 2.5 years, and a digital design and photography class my senior year. All of these experiences pushed me to gain a better understanding of the camera and art of photography. 

Flash forward to fall of 2020, I decided to put myself out there and make an Instagram for my photography. I started out by taking college graduation photos for friends and shortly after was asked to take photos for 2 weddings. I realized that my hobby was something that I could turn into my career. With each and every session, I learn and grow so much. I still have a lot to learn, but am so proud of myself and how far I’ve come. I love using my creative abilities to capture the beauty of life. It can be a vulnerable thing to let someone photograph you, so I make sure that my clients can trust me. I love being able to capture moments that will last a lifetime. I am blown away by the support that I have received from friends, family, and other photographers. Everything has fallen into place. It started with creating an Instagram account, then booking my first session, then my first wedding, then creating website, and so on. One small decision I made changed my life. I am so grateful for my photography journey this past year. 

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
My biggest challenge has been myself. I am constantly doubting myself. It is difficult because no one is going to walk up and tell you that you’re terrible at your job. It is also very scary taking a leap of faith and starting a photography business. However, all of my fears and doubts push me to find different ways to grow. I have invested in myself by attending different photography course to learn the ins and outs of starting one. Every opportunity I get to use my camera makes me stronger. 

I learned that if I don’t put in the work then I won’t get anything in return. It was challenging at first because I had no idea what I was doing or any plan in mind, but was trusting that I was doing the right thing for myself. Photography brings me so much joy. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My most recent shoot was taking photos of some kids I nannied this summer. We went to a sunflower field because it’s a must if you live in Kansas. I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect when photographing kids. All of my fears and worries fled my mind once I took the first photo. Taking pictures of kids is challenging, but so rewarding. 

I am still working on finding my specialty because I love everything that I have done so far. I am photographing everything I can get my hands on. One of my favorite shoots this year was my best friend’s wedding in Anna Maria, Florida. It was such a perfect day and the photos were absolutely beautiful because we were right on the beach. That day made me realize that I could turn my passion for photography into a career.

I have shot everything from senior pictures, weddings, family photos, branding photos, and even pictures of dogs. One of my pictures is on a billboard for Mission-Driven Goods, a brand who helps dogs in animal shelters get adopted. 

Here’s a link to the article about it: https://people.com/pets/dog-in-shelter-for-two-years-gets-billboard-to-help-find-home/ 

The most important thing to know about me is that I am always open to new experiences. Life got pretty busy for me once I started my photography business and I love it! I do what I do because it makes others happy. Nothing beats the feeling of sending a client their photo gallery and receiving feedback from them. It helps me realize that I am doing what I am meant to do. 

What does success mean to you?
Success is not based on the amount of fame or money someone has. It is based on if they are genuinely happy in life. One of the reasons why I love photography is because it makes me happy. It’s as simple as that. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.cassandraelizabethphoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassandra.elizabeth.photo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cassandraelizabeth.photo/

Image Credits
Courtney Hafner (for the main photo)