Meet Patrice Hudson | Owner & Photographer

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

Hi Patrice, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own photography business was truly a journey that has been shaped by both my lifelong passion for photography and a deeper sense of purpose that I believe was guided by something greater than myself. From the time I was a little girl, I’ve always had an intense love for capturing moments. Whether I was the one in the photo or holding the camera, I found so much joy in preserving memories through pictures. I remember taking photos of anything and everything family gatherings, my pets, nature, even the smallest details that many people might not notice but that spoke volumes to me. It wasn’t just about taking a picture for the sake of it; it was about telling a story, capturing emotion, and creating something timeless. I’ve always believed that every photograph has a story to tell and a memory to preserve.

As I got older, this love for photography only grew stronger. But it wasn’t just about the pictures anymore it became clear to me that photography was my calling. I had always dreamt of turning my passion into something bigger, something I could share with others, and I knew that starting my own business was the natural next step. My goal was simple: I wanted to help people capture their special moments and preserve memories for a lifetime, just as I had always done for myself. But beyond that, I wanted to create a business that reflected my heart, my journey, and the things that mattered most to me.

While my love for photography has always been a driving force, I also came to realize that starting my business wasn’t just about following a childhood dream it was also about listening to God’s guidance. Over time, I felt a spiritual nudge that pushed me to take the leap. I believe that everything happens for a reason, and as I grew closer to the idea of starting my own business, I felt like I was being led in this direction by a higher power. It wasn’t always an easy decision, and there were moments of doubt and fear, but I felt that God was telling me this was the path I was meant to walk. The vision I had for my business wasn’t just my own it was part of a larger plan, one that I had to trust and follow. That sense of guidance and faith played a huge role in my decision to turn my passion into a business.

When it came to naming my business, I knew I wanted it to be meaningful and personal something that truly reflected who I am and the journey I’ve been on. My business is called Sidney Vision Photography, and the name carries a deep, emotional significance. I chose to name my business after my brother, Sidney, who passed away. He was someone who meant the world to me, and naming my business in his honor is my way of keeping his memory alive. Sidney was a big influence in my life, and his passing left a huge void in my heart. But instead of letting that void define me, I wanted to turn that pain into something beautiful and purposeful. I believe he’s with me in everything I do, and through this business, I get to carry his spirit and legacy with me.

The “Vision” in Sidney Vision Photography is also deeply meaningful. For me, photography is about more than just capturing images it’s about seeing the world in a way that tells a story, a way that evokes emotion, and a way that reveals the beauty in the everyday. The vision behind my photography is about connecting with people, seeing their essence, and preserving those moments that truly matter. It’s about having a vision for what I want my photos to represent: the love, joy, and beauty that exist in the world, even in the most ordinary of moments. Naming my business after Sidney and incorporating “Vision” into the name was my way of merging my brother’s memory with my own unique perspective on photography.

In many ways, starting this business has been a process of healing and transformation. It’s not just a career; it’s a calling, a way for me to honor the people I love and to bring beauty into the world through my work. Every photo I take, every session I have with a client, feels like a tribute to my brother’s memory and a way of sharing the love and joy he brought into my life. This business is a reflection of both my passion for photography and the love, faith, and guidance that have helped shape me into the person I am today.

Sidney Vision Photography is not just a business it’s a legacy. It’s a testament to following your passion, trusting your intuition, and honoring the people and moments that make life meaningful. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do what I love while also staying connected to the things that matter most to me. With every photo I capture, I feel like I’m living out my purpose and keeping my brother’s spirit alive in a way that’s both beautiful and meaningful.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’d love to share more about my business, Sidney Vision Photography, and the journey that has brought me to where I am today. Starting my own photography business has been both a dream and a calling, and it has been shaped by my love for capturing moments, my personal experiences, and a deep desire to create meaningful connections with my clients.

What sets me apart?

What truly sets Sidney Vision Photography apart is not just the technical skill behind the camera, but the heart and soul I put into every session. I believe photography is not just about taking pictures; it’s about telling a story, capturing a feeling, and preserving a memory in a way that feels authentic and personal. Every photo is more than just an image it’s a moment frozen in time that holds immense emotional value.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the personal connection I build with my clients. I don’t just show up, take photos, and leave; I really invest in getting to know the people I’m photographing. Whether I’m doing a family session, a special event, or a personal portrait, I want my clients to feel comfortable, relaxed, and seen. I take time to understand their vision, their personalities, and the significance of the moment they’re celebrating. That connection is what allows me to capture photos that aren’t just beautiful but meaningful.

My business is also unique because of its deeply personal foundation. Sidney Vision Photography is named after my brother, Sidney, who passed away. Every photo I take, every client I serve, is a tribute to his memory. His legacy lives on through this business, and his spirit and energy inspire me every day. That connection to my brother gives me a deep sense of purpose and guides my work. It’s not just a business it’s a calling to honor him while sharing the gift of photography with others.

How did I get here, and was it easy?

Getting to where I am today was not an easy path. Like many entrepreneurs, there were times when I questioned myself, my decisions, and whether I was on the right track. But every step of the way, I’ve been fueled by a passion for what I do and a belief that this is what I’m meant to be doing. The road wasn’t always smooth, but it was worth every challenge.

Starting a business involves more than just having a camera and taking great pictures. I had to learn the ins and outs of running a business: marketing, customer service, pricing, budgeting, and managing the logistics of everything from photo shoots to client communications. There were plenty of times I felt overwhelmed and unsure, but I leaned on my faith and the support of my family and mentors to keep going. I had to learn to take risks, make mistakes, and turn those mistakes into lessons. I had to embrace the fact that growth takes time, and there would be moments of struggle along the way.

One of the biggest challenges was overcoming self-doubt. When you start a business, you’re not just selling a product or service you’re putting a piece of yourself out into the world. For a long time, I hesitated to fully step into my role as a business owner because I was afraid of failure or rejection. But over time, I realized that failure is part of the journey, and each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. I had to trust in my abilities, trust in my vision, and trust that God was guiding me through it all.

Lessons learned along the way

1. Patience is key. Building a business takes time. There are no overnight successes. It’s about consistently showing up, doing the work, and trusting the process. The small steps add up over time.

2. Embrace failure as a teacher. I’ve made mistakes, and I’m sure I will continue to. But every mistake has been a lesson that’s made me stronger and more equipped to handle challenges.

3. Stay true to your values. There will always be competition, trends, and outside pressures, but at the end of the day, I want my business to reflect my authentic self and the values I hold dear. My clients can sense when I’m genuine and when I’m not. Staying true to who I am has built a loyal client base that resonates with my story and the heart behind my business.

4. Relationships are everything. Building meaningful relationships with my clients, mentors, and community has been the foundation of my business. The trust they place in me to capture their memories is something I don’t take lightly, and it’s what keeps me motivated to grow and improve every day.

5. Trust in your purpose. There have been moments of uncertainty, but when I remember that my business is more than just a career it’s a calling I find the strength to keep moving forward. My work is a tribute to my brother’s memory, and that purpose keeps me grounded.

What do I want the world to know about Sidney Vision Photography?

I want people to know that Sidney Vision Photography is more than just a business it’s a labor of love. It’s about capturing the essence of each person, each moment, and creating timeless memories that hold sentimental value for years to come. My goal is to help people preserve the most important moments in their lives, whether it’s a wedding, family milestone, or personal portrait. Every photo I take is infused with the passion and love that I feel for this craft.

I also want the world to know that this business is a reflection of family, faith, and legacy. It’s about honoring my brother’s memory and creating something meaningful from his spirit and energy. The name Sidney Vision Photography is a tribute to him, and through this business, I continue to feel his presence in every photo I capture.

My journey has been shaped by faith, perseverance, and the unwavering support of those I love. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I’m excited for where it will take me next. I want to continue helping others preserve their most precious memories while building a brand that reflects authenticity, purpose, and the beauty of connection.

Ultimately, I want Sidney Vision Photography to be known not just for beautiful images, but for the heart and soul behind the lens. Every photo is a story, and every story is worth telling.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to give them the best time ever with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. Here’s a quick itinerary: Day 1: We’d kick off with breakfast at a cozy local café, then stroll around downtown checking out unique boutiques and art galleries. Dinner would be at a trendy restaurant with craft cocktails, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar with a great view. Day 2: We’d spend the day outdoors, hiking or exploring a nearby park, followed by a picnic lunch. In the evening, we’d hit up a local brewery and enjoy some live music at a casual bar. Day 3: Food day! We’d start with a visit to a farmers’ market, grab brunch at a popular spot, and then explore the local arts scene with a gallery hop. Dinner would be at a vibrant food truck park or a famous ethnic restaurant. Day 4: A day of thrills whether it’s zip-lining, visiting an amusement park, or going to a live sports game. We’d finish the day with some comfort food and drinks at a cozy dive bar. Day 5: A relaxing spa morning, followed by a laid-back afternoon at a botanical garden or scenic lookout. For dinner, a fine dining experience with a wine pairing, then winding down at a speakeasy-style bar. Day 6: A day trip to a nearby town or vineyard, with lunch at a charming local café. We’d explore, shop, and take tons of photos. Day 7: To wrap it up, a relaxed brunch, a visit to a favorite spot from the week, and a sunset view to reflect on all the fun we’ve had. This itinerary is all about mixing excitement with downtime and discovering the best of the area’s culture, food, and natural beauty!

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?
Absolutely! I love the concept of the Shoutout series, and I truly believe that our success is never a solo effort it’s shaped by the people who support, encourage, and inspire us along the way. For me, there are so many individuals and groups who have played pivotal roles in my journey, and I want to take this opportunity to give them the recognition they deserve.

First and foremost, I have to give a massive shoutout to God. My faith has been the foundation of everything I do, and I truly believe that I’m where I am today because of His guidance. The journey to starting my business was not always clear or easy, but I always felt a sense of direction, purpose, and peace that I can only attribute to my faith in God. I’m grateful for the strength He’s given me, especially during moments of doubt, and for the way He continues to lead me toward my purpose.

I also want to shout out to my family my loved ones, and especially my brother. My family has been my rock from the very beginning. Their unconditional love and unwavering belief in me have been the driving force behind my courage to step out on my own and pursue my dreams. And to my brother, who I’ve named my business after, thank you for your love, inspiration, and the legacy you left behind. Though you’re no longer physically here, I carry your spirit with me every day, and you continue to inspire and motivate me in everything I do.

A special shoutout also goes to my church family. The sense of community, love, and support I’ve received from my church has been invaluable. The encouragement, prayers, and bonds I’ve built with so many people there have made me feel supported in my personal and professional journey. It’s been such a blessing to be surrounded by a group of people who genuinely care about my growth and success.

I am incredibly grateful for the mentors who have come into my life those who’ve shared their wisdom, their experiences, and their advice. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. They’ve not only taught me about photography but also about resilience, business, and staying true to my values. The time they’ve invested in me has been priceless.

Friends and loved ones also deserve a huge thank you. These are the people who cheer me on from the sidelines, offering support when I need it most. They remind me to celebrate my wins, but also to learn from the challenges. They’ve been there through the highs and lows, offering encouragement, laughter, and love at every step. Their belief in me, sometimes even when I didn’t believe in myself, has been a true gift.

And lastly, I want to shout out to everyone who has ever believed in my vision clients, fellow creatives, and supporters who trust me to capture their special moments. Each session is a reminder of why I do what I do, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to create memories with so many amazing people.

In short, this success isn’t just mine it’s the result of the collective support, love, and guidance from so many incredible people and influences. To God, my family, my church family, my brother Sidney, my mentors, my friends, and all those who’ve been part of this journey, I’m deeply thankful. Your encouragement has shaped who I am and where I’m headed, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

Website: https://www.sidneyvisionphotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidneyvisionphotography/

Other: https://www.sidneyvisionphotography.com/links

Image Credits
All credits to Sidney Vision Photography