We asked some of the city’s hidden gems to tell us about what they feel is the most important factor behind their success.

Payton Hartsell

I think the biggest factor behind my success has been leading with intention and care. I’m fully invested in the people I work with. I really value clear communication, so I always aim to make sure nothing feels confusing or up in the air. From the initial email to the final gallery delivery, I want every part of the experience to feel seamless and thoughtful. Most of the people I photograph, I end up documenting every milestone and achievement in their lives, and it’s the coolest thing to be trusted with all those big moments. That level of care and connection is what turns the experience into something truly memorable for us all. At the end of the day, I want my clients to feel seen, not just in the photos, but throughout the entire process. Read More>>

 Juanita WOOTEN

I take my craft very seriously! I treat my business as a business and not a gig or something to just do for money. I am overly concerned with the experience that each and every one of my clients has while in my presence. Customer service is not dead with me. I look at everything from a consumers point of view before I look at it from a business owner’s point of view. Read More>>

Marley Saxe

Authenticity. People can feel when something is real. I don’t create products just to sell them—I create them because I believe in them. I stay connected to my community, listen to their needs, and never compromise on quality or integrity. Everything I make is rooted in care, and I think that shines through. Read More>>

Michel Sabillon

The key to success is discipline, consistency, and balance. Why? Because you have to have discipline in your business, consistency because we can’t let ourselves be defeated, and every day we must fight for our business and balance because we are also more than just a business; we have families, and everything must find its time. Read More>>