Here is the second installment of our new monthly feature that will allow you to get to know some of our amazing Hello Storyteller Members! Each month we will choose one member to feature and share with the community. If you’re a member and would like your chance to be featured, please click here to fill out our application!

This month, it’s our pleasure to introduce you to the amazingly talented, Felicia Doan!

Tell Us Your Photography Story

My husband bought me my first DSLR about 4 years ago, shortly after our son was born and our daughter was 2 at the time. I followed a lot of photographer moms on Instagram and I dreamed of being able to capture my kids that way and forever having those memories of them. One of the first photographers I followed was Meg Loeks. I’m still incredibly inspired by her work (I mean, who isn’t?). Before I even had a camera I distinctly remember the moment I realized I wanted to be a photographer. I was 8 months pregnant with my son and noticed the strong light coming through my kitchen window. I thought it was the perfect light for a silhouette. I changed into a black tank top that was tight on me and posed while my husband snapped the picture showing off my huge belly. I stared at the picture forever. I had captured that moment exactly how I wanted to. That picture is still framed and hanging on my wall. From then on, I kept reading articles on Pinterest and practicing with my phone until we had saved enough for a camera. When I first got my camera, I immediately switched it to manual and just experimented with my settings as I followed my kids around capturing their every second. I have a lot of pictures from then that are blurry and underexposed, but learning photography takes time and practice. One of my favorite quotes is from Bob Ross; He says, ” Talent is just pursued interest.” I am continually growing and learning and that’s what I love about photography. There are so many different possibilities with different lenses, settings, and editing . Now that I’m confident in my work my photography has evolved as I’m beginning to start a photography business and turn my hobby into a career.

What course(s) have you taken, if any?

I have only taken one course so far and it was An environmental awakening by Kristen Ryan.

What is your favorite thing about the HS Community?

This community is so inspiring and everyone is so kind. There are so many helpful tutorials and advice. I love that everybody’s growth is celebrated.

What is your favorite technique | style you have tried or mastered this year?

I have always been pretty confident in my black and white work, but have struggled with color and white balance. I’ve worked really hard on pushing myself to grow in that area and that’s a huge thing this community has helped me with seeing as so many of the mentors here ( like Kristen Ryan, Meg Boggs, and Holly Awwad) use color as a huge part of their work.

What are your 3 favorite images (or session series) you have shot this year and share the story about them?