Nichole Storey shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Nichole, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Watching my family flourish is the greatest joy I could ever experience. My son, who recently turned 2, is so kind, thoughtful, funny, and energetic. My husband is supportive, caring, and my best sounding board when things seem to become overwhelming. Together with our 2 dogs and chickens we really are living this little dream.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! My name is Nichole Storey, I am a Kansas City based photographer so specializes in weddings, couples, families, and newborns. I started my photography business 2 years ago right after my son was born, I had previously been working as a respiratory therapist in a local hospital and the thought of going back was almost suffocating. Working through the pandemic had caused serious burnout and I was starting to lack passion for a job I had once loved. I had always been interested in photography but never considered taking it seriously until my maternity leave was almost up. Being creative has always been my thing so it just felt right. One night while sitting on the couch, I was in tears thinking about going back to work. I looked over at my husband and said “I think I want to buy a camera and start a photography business, I think I could be really successful at it.” He looked right back at me and said “Okay, I think you can be too” and that’s how Nichole Storey Photography was born.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That I couldn’t do it. That I didn’t deserve it. That I would never be enough. In my youth, I fell victim many times to letting the voices in my head convince me that I couldn’t do it, I didn’t deserve it, and that I would never be enough. It wasn’t until I turned 28 and had my son, that I realized I could, I do, and I am. I can do the hard things like start my own business while being a stay at home mom. I do deserve to be happy, successful, and have a beautiful family, and I am enough for those that support and love me. Finding the people that also believe those things about you makes all the difference in the world and your mindset when it comes to doing the hard things.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would say “The things that you think are flawed about you are actually your greatest strengths.”
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Being a mom and being the best person I can be for him. That includes encouraging him to do the things that he’s passionate about, demonstrating what hard work and perseverance look like, and being a space of comfort when things get tough. He’s the reason I started this business and he’s the reason I keep grinding every day.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am now officially doing what I was born to do. There is not one day of this job that I dread ever. I enjoy the people I’ve been able to meet, the friends I’ve gained, and the freedom I’ve obtained from building my photography business. I went from spending every day with people who were experiencing the worst moments of their lives to celebrating with people who were having the best. It brings me so much joy and and so many emotions to be able to document such sweet memories in people’s lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nicholestoreyphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholestoreyphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Nichole-Storey-Photography/61552538090269/?ref=_xav_ig_profile_page_web#
Image Credits
All images are that of Nichole Storey Photography
