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

Hi Meagan, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
The work/life balance concept has always been a struggle for me. When I go “all in,” I truly go all in and so it is difficult to find that balance we all crave. Even though I am far from perfect in this area, there are two things that have really helped me. First, I started to use automated booking services like Session to help me select my availability, send a contract, collect payment, and share albums. It’s truly a game changer and has saved me so much time with that “back and forth” that can happen when scheduling/booking your sessions. The second (and most important) is honoring the Sabbath. Our family’s faith plays a major role in how we view time and our schedules. My husband and I both agree that a day of rest was a commandment given to us by God and so we need to obey that command and not work on Sundays. Setting and keeping this boundary has been hard for me (I want to please everyone and make sure I can fit my schedule with others’), but my clients have respected the boundaries I have set and it’s been amazing for both them and my family.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
From an early age, I remember sitting near a tree in the pasture surrounded by trees, horses, cattle, farm dogs, and beautiful skies. Sitting still and taking the moment to appreciate the beauty before me is something that prompted me to want to share the beauty I saw with others. When I was younger, my craft was art. I loved to draw and paint. It wasn’t until motherhood that I picked up a camera on our small homestead out here in Lee County and began documenting our lives on the farm. Others saw my work and asked if I would help document their families for them as well. My business took off from there and I haven’t looked back. It has been such a joy and honor to help capture the authentic and raw moments for my community. From births, to graduations, engagements to extended families, and lifestyle to product photography sessions… I have been inspired by so many people to be present and grateful for our today.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Living here in Lee County, we have this amazing BBQ joint in town you may have heard of called “Snow’s.” Miss Tootsie is the pit master and has such an incredible story to share. I remember early on bringing my camera to Snow’s and was able to document our entire family enjoying Saturday morning BBQ. I cherish those photos and the generosity of the owners! Honestly, our community has some amazing folks who would invite you over for a home cooked meal in a heartbeat. Sitting around a table with family and friends is my absolute favorite way to get to know your neighbor and experience the culture of the area. Come to a church picnic or a school fundraiser and you’ll get the best of Lee County!

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?
Oh my goodness there are so many people who have encouraged me! I want to especially thank my community here in Lee County, TX. They have championed my work, referred me to so many others, and encouraged me to continue to pick up my camera each day. I also want to thank my amazingly handsome and wonderful husband who jumps in to watch the kids and gives me the time to pursue my dream to become a professional photographer. I have recently left my full-time position to stay home to love my family well, be more present, take time to grow my craft of photography, and grow our beekeeping business. He made it all possible for me to do this and has encouraged my creativity from day one!

Website: https://www.meaganjoyphotography.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/meaganjoyphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meaganjoyphotography

Image Credits
Meagan Joy 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.