Meet Barbara McClane | Professional Photographer

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

Hi Barbara, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
The most important lesson my business has taught me is to never give up. When I first began my business I did not have a written out plan, just a plan in my head. It was a dream that took whole into a passion. I did not have business sense on pricing, so I low budget myself. I had achieved some personal development by taking a few photography classes, and gaining knowledge by assisting other professional Photographers. These lessons put me on a path of building my brand, renting my own photography studio. Clients did not flood my studio as I hope for, but I continued with faith, that if God built it the people will come. To keep building on my craft I practiced continously, by creating themes for a personal project. This project is called I Am Woman. Each year a different theme is created and has been in existence since 2019. The project helped with many facets of my photography business. Not allow having the clientele to discourage me. The rent still had to be paid, with that in mind I lowered my expenses in other areas of my life, continued to practice, and never gave up my passion for photography. Today my business is more lucrative I have expanded into events for organizations which allows to pay the rent on the studio. I am contracted with a youth program to teach students 101 workshops on beginners photography.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is multi facet. I am a best selling self published author of Blessed Not Bitter : The Barbara McClane Journey. The creative force behind I Am Woman Movement, a personal project, workshop Facilitator. I am most proud of publishing my memoir, it contains the truth of finding my biological family after six decades. I continue becoming who I am am daily, with no destination, but enjoyment in the journey. I am only here by God’s Grace and mercy. Challenges come and go, I accept and reposition myself to face any challenges that occur. Lessons are tools that move me towards my goal, I learn them with ease. I leave behind a legacy of wisdom, tell your story, someone needs to read it, so they can share theirs.

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?
I would take them to Brooklyn, N.Y. It is rich in artful culture, a colorful borough with great sights to enjoy, and taseful eats. Sisters is absolutely a great place for a beautiful brunch. The restaurant sits in the Cooble Hill section of Brooklyn, know for natural light and flavorful sandwiches. Sunday Mimosas as well.

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?
I would like to shout Leslie Gomez of LMG Photography, and Matthew Kabel they were first two instructors into the vision of my photography.

Nzima Hutchings: Every kinda lady, LLC, Content and Production Manager for my memior.

Website: BarkelMcClanePhotography.com

Instagram: Barkel_Photography

Facebook: Barbara Barbrezzy Mcclane

Image Credits
Leslie Gomez/LMG Photography