Meet Diani Ellison: Photographer & Clothing-line Owner

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

Hi Diani, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a parent, the most important thing I’ve done in terms of impact would be simply going on this current journey of healing. I’ve learned how not only our good habits but also our bad habits and trauma can be passed down to our children through our DNA and the thought of my son suffering through things I refuse to face and conquer is heartbreaking to me. I’ve made it my mission to allow the Most High in the depths of me, to help pull out and uncover things that have been keeping me stagnant, and comfortable in my old self. To take better care of myself and take my health seriously, both physical and mental. And because of this, I’m gaining a deeper understanding of myself, learning what I like and don’t like, and ultimately who I am. When I initially started typing this message it was all about chasing my dreams, leaving my 9-5, and building some sort of legacy. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter how much money or whatever I choose to leave my son if he has to go to therapy because of me and my choice not to grow and heal. I’m not a perfect mother, there are days when I do have to apologize to my son. Some days I do not get it right but I pray he sees that his mom is really trying and wholeheartedly loves him and working through the pain to give him the best version of me he deserves.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am going to keep this short. I always felt like I was “slept on” etc when it came to my photography, but I realized it was me who was asleep. I was sleeping on the gifts and talents that The Most High gave me, I was moving in fear and low self-esteem. I didn’t believe in my craft, and people felt that, people knew that. It wasn’t until I decided that I’m that girl behind this lens, not in a cocky way but hyping myself and remember the YEARS of work I’ve put into this. This isn’t something I just started doing. I’ve had a camera since elementary school and I started photography professionally about 7 years ago at this point. I have worked my butt off to get here, and I’ve never been more proud of myself.

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 am just going to say this now I am the wrong person to ask, but I will give it a try. I’m thinking starting the day at BQE, Cirque, Another Broken Egg, or another good spot. My friends and I love physical activities so possibly go play laser tag, or one of those crazy trampoline parks. Maybe even the aquarium, or a museum of some sort. End it with grabbing food from Ponce and walking the belt line and watching the sun set. Ponce really is a vibe. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
It wouldn’t be right to thank just one person so I want to shout-out my village. My tribe. My people who constantly push me to be a better woman, who love me in all of my pieces. Who have been with me during my darkest and happiest of times. The people who also love and care for my son like they had him themselves. The people I can laugh and cry with. I’m grateful for these people.

Website: www.everydayfaithapparel.co

Instagram: @dianichantell, @everydayfaithapparel