Meet Andrea Buchanan

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

Hi Andrea, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success is a combination of belief, resilience, and genuine care for my clients. I’ve always had an unwavering belief in myself, even when so many people encouraged me to pursue my formal education and avoid starting my own business because of how challenging it can be. Growing up, I watched my parents—who immigrated from Romania—build multiple businesses from the ground up. They took risks, remained consistent, and pursued their dreams with determination, making it look effortless. That example gave me hope and the confidence to pursue my own ambitions.

Equally important is my commitment to my clients. I genuinely put them first and give my heart and soul to what I do. Their wedding days are my top priority, and I take pride in being a team player and creating a seamless, unforgettable experience for them. That dedication and passion are what set my brand apart.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is centered around capturing timeless, romantic, and effortless imagery for weddings, portraits, and branding. What sets me apart is my deep focus on storytelling—I don’t just document events; I aim to create visual legacies that evoke emotion and allow my clients to relive their most cherished moments for years to come.

I’m most proud of the trust my clients place in me and the relationships I build with them. It’s not just about photography—it’s about understanding their vision, guiding them through the process, and delivering an experience that feels seamless, personal, and unforgettable.

Getting to where I am today was far from easy. Starting a business comes with countless challenges, from building a clientele to learning how to run a business while staying true to my creative vision. There were moments of doubt and setbacks, but I leaned on my resilience, my passion for storytelling, and the example of my parents, who built successful businesses from the ground up after immigrating from Romania.

I’ve learned so many lessons along the way. One of the most important is the value of consistency—staying committed to your craft, showing up even on the hard days, and trusting the process. I’ve also learned that success is built on relationships and genuine connection. When you truly care about your clients and their stories, it shows in your work and builds lasting trust.

If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about my brand, it’s that I pour my heart into everything I do. I believe in the power of preserving moments, of creating images that are as beautiful as the memories themselves. My story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep commitment to helping others celebrate life’s most meaningful chapters in a way that feels timeless and unique to them.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Let’s pretend it’s a perfect April weekend, my girlfriends are in town, and I’m tasked with curating the ultimate itinerary (one of my favorite things to do). With gorgeous weather and the best vibes, our weekend would be a mix of cute dining spots, outdoor adventures, boutique shopping, a little fitness, and rooftop dinners to end each night in style.

Friday
We’d kick off the weekend with a cozy brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen—their biscuits are divine! Then, we’d stroll the Beltline, popping into cute shops along the way and grabbing a coffee at East Pole or Bellwood Coffee to keep us fueled. For dinner, it’s all about fresh seafood and chic vibes at The Optimist, followed by drinks at Tesserae’s rooftop, with stunning views of the city to set the mood.

Saturday
We’d start our day with a workout—either an F45 session, a Lagree-style pilates class, or (if they’re lucky) a weightlifting session led by me at Lifetime. Afterward, we’d head to The Chastain for a leisurely brunch on their patio. The afternoon would be perfect for a picnic at Piedmont Park, complete with a spread of cheeses, cold cuts, fruit, and rosé. For dinner, we’d dress up and head to Yeppa & Yalda for their fresh, modern flavors, then finish the night at The Garden Room for cocktails in the dreamiest, flower-filled setting.

Sunday
We’d keep things relaxed with a final brunch at Fellows or TBB 122 for amazing food and a chill vibe. Afterward, we’d explore Ponce City Market for some shopping and a fun rooftop hang. If there’s time, we might squeeze in a Lagree class or a scenic walk along the Chattahoochee River. For a final dinner, it’s off to Canoe for a serene riverside meal to close out the weekend on a high note.

Atlanta offers such a perfect mix of outdoor activities, great food, and unforgettable experiences—I love sharing the places that make this city so special!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It truly takes a village, and I recognize that my success is not solely my own. It’s a combination of the people who inspire me, those who have taken the time to pour into me and encourage me, and the podcasts, books, and educational resources I immerse myself in daily.

First and foremost, I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my parents for the major role they’ve played in my life. Their support, resilience, and example have been invaluable. I’d also like to recognize my husband, who has been my rock—always supporting me, encouraging me, and cheering me on every step of the way.

Lastly, I’d like to extend gratitude to my incredible clients. Their trust and belief in my vision fuel my creativity and passion every single day. They are the reason I do what I do, and I’m endlessly grateful to play a small part in their most meaningful moments.

Website: https://www.heirloomfoto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea.l.buchanan/

Image Credits
Do I need to include image credits from all vendors on these weddings?