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

Hi Haley, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
How much work goes into a photography business!

Did you know: In the 1st year, 60% of photographers give up their business. Of that remaining 40%, another 25% will fail within the 2nd year. – Dane Sanders

Not only is running a small business hard but when you throw in the purchase of equipment (camera, Pc, lighting, bag, props), editing software, gallery & website programs, & not to miss marketing materials. It costs a lot to start up & build a solid business. Then there’s the time you forfeit from holidays, events & time with family because you have shoots or editing to do. It’s a non stop job & it never ends. But it’s SO fulfilling to see the joy your photos have brought to your clients!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My love for photography started in high school photography class. Each week we had a new assignment that would make us learn & use different techniques when it came to shooting. One weekend my family went to Lumberton for my brother’s baseball tournament and on the road into the baseball park there was a field of longhorns. So, I of course yelled, ” STOP THE CAR!” & Jumped out to take pictures of them (We had a Photography class assignment to be creative) & I noticed the fence was dripping in tar. Not only that the way it was angled against the road made for a really cool picture! For Christmas that year my dad had my fence picture blown up on a huge canvas & to this day it reminds me of WHY I started my business.

In 2020 in the midst of COVID I bit the bullet & opened a Livestock Decor Printing Line (also a long-time goal of mine) & we sell everything from pillows & blankets to phone cases & coasters! Although this part of the business has been harder to market & sell, I’m not giving up!

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?
Everyone that has a booked a session with me, shared a post, commented my name on a post, YALL are to thank! Thank y’all for all the continued support & putting your trust in me to capture all your timeless moments!

Website: southernmoonlightphotography.com

Instagram: southernmoonlightphotography

Facebook: Southern Moonlight Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX 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.