We had the good fortune of connecting with Sherry Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sherry, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
SCW Photography was originally birthed from the idea of a friend. After my God Father allowed me to borrow his “real” camera I was hooked; no more polaroid pictures for me. I bought my first camera and took pictures of everything. After the birth of my first daughter, I wanted to capture every single moment and I did. A friend saw my pictures and asked me to take pictures of her son, and she loved the final product. It was at her encouragement that I began my photography business. When I became a single mother of two; I knew I needed an additional stream of income. SCW Photography’s mobile portrait studio was officially born. I started to invest in my business and develop my skills especially as the world moved to digital photography. It has not been an easy journey, and I have had my successes and setbacks, but starting my own business was one of the best financial decisions for me. It has taught me resilience, increased my networking skills, and allowed me to be a change agent in my community. My passion for creating lasting memories has allowed me to be the captain of my own fate, and work with some amazing people. I work with all genres of photography, but my true passion is Portrait and Boudoir. As mothers, wives, and caretakers we sometimes forget our “Fabulousness”. After a friend shared, she did not feel sexy anymore; I offered her boudoir a session. After some convincing, she agreed and at the end of the session she said, “Oh I’m Fine”. The confidence that fell on her face from just that one session was all I needed to offer that line of work. SCW Photography “Boudoir Chic” was born!
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The journey of starting my own business, while working full-time, completing my degree, and a single mother of two was not easy, but I did it! The course was not linear; it was a winding road with hills and valleys. When I look back my dedication, hard work, passion, and strong family unit were the keys to my success. I would not be where I am today without my family and their support. My passion and creativity for photography continue to drive me, and I use this in my non-profit work helping and uplifting my community.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love Atlanta’s history and flavor! We would start with the beauty of Downtown McDonough and venture towards the City stopping along the way at some of the fabulous places below. All of these places have a rich history, ambiance and are unique to what makes up the Metro Alanta area.
The Real Milk and Honey
Restaurant 356 overlooking the Porsche track and Atlanta Airport
Krog Street Market
Inman Park
Cabbage Town
Atlantic Station
The BeltLine
Sweet Auburn Ave
Piedmont Park
Ponce City Market
Little Five Points
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shout out all of my family, friends, and clients who have encouraged, invested, and promoted my business.
Website: www.scwphotography.com
Instagram: scwphotography_1
Facebook: SCW Photography
Other: Facebook: SCW Photography – Boudoir Chic Instagram: scwphotograpy_boudoirchic
Image Credits
Dominique Williams