Meet Yanae Williams | Creative Director and Photographer

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

Hi Yanae, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The steps I took before launching my business have been nothing short of a progressive journey. From humble beginnings, where I dabbled in freelance gigs with family and friends, that progressed into contracting with mid to large-scale businesses, to securing my first career role in news and television post-college, every step has been a building block toward realizing my true potential. Yet, despite these achievements, balancing part-time roles as a video production technician and waitress was a juggling act that diverted my attention from my true passions. Then, I made the bold decision to take the leap, from traditional employment to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. This leap opened doors to a world of possibility. leading me to create EsseStare Studio, where intentionality has always been one of my guiding principles. I’ve dedicated myself entirely to nurturing my creative talents and honing my skills in visual storytelling through photography. Whether capturing culinary delights in food photography as Espro Restaurant photography or immortalizing precious moments through event photography as Essestare Event Photography, my journey has been one of continuous growth. Creating spaces where individuals and brands can authentically shine has become my purpose. Every click of the shutter is an opportunity to craft narratives that resonate deeply with my clients and their audiences. Like millions of others, I have a story to tell. But the privilege of capturing the stories for others propels me forward as a creative entrepreneur.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

But amidst the uncertainty, I’ve come to realize that there’s no one-size-fits-all roadmap to success. I’ve had to embrace the true essence of a journey, letting go of short-term expectations and embracing self-discovery in both failures and triumphs. Every setback has been a lesson, and every risk has been a step closer to my purpose. I am most proud of the truth that I’ve learned that progress comes when we accept change, no matter how it manifests.

Having this realization to create Essestare Studio, is the culmination of my skilled interest, meeting purpose. My passion for the arts goes beyond mere expression, and I am a true aesthete who appreciates creativity in everyday life. I want to be another voice in the chorus of creatives, creating spaces where individuals and brands can shine authentically. Every step has led to my commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those I want to serve and creating narratives that resonate deeply and inspire change. For me, creating these spaces isn’t just a job—it’s my raison d’être, my reason for being.

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?
Being a Detroit, I am familiar with Detroit and surrounding areas, yet still, there are so many more places in Michigan to explore. So when creating an itinerary it would look a little something like this in short.

Monday – Tour Downtown Detroit + Visit “Detroit Institute of Arts” in Detroit, MI + Dinner at “Yum Village” in downtown Detroit, MI
Tuesday – *Chill Day* Grab lunch at “Super Crisp” in downtown Detroit, MI, and Relax at “Belle Isle” Park” in Detroit, MI
Wednesday – (Travel to Ann Arbor, MI) Tour and Visit the Ann Arbor Art Fair + Dinner at “Frita Batidos Ann Arbor”
Thursday – (Travel to Holland, MI) Go berry picking and Grab treats from “Bowerman’s Blueberries Farm Market” + Visit “Window on the Waterfront” park
Friday – (Travel to Saugatuck, MI) Have breakfast at “Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions” + Visit “Saugatuck Dune Rides”
Saturday – (Head back to Detroit) Grab dinner at “Miyoshi Sushi” in Fraser, MI, + treats at “Sweet Jay’s Bakeshop” in Warren, MI
Sunday – Visit “John K. King” Bookstore in Detroit, Michigan + Mid-day coffee and sweets at “Tous le Jours” in Troy, MI + Dinner at “Que Pasa Taqueria” in Sterling Heights, MI

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout my journey thus far, I owe immense gratitude to my family, the greatest support system I could ask for. Among them, my aunt Jenita Smith stands out as a shining example of passion and entrepreneurship, setting high standards for goal achievement. My cousin Darrell, equally ambitious in his career, generously provided my first camera, kick-starting my entrepreneurial spirit. My partner challenges and motivates me daily, urging me to pursue my passions relentlessly. Last but never least, I must mention my mother, my unwavering supporter, believer, and initial investor. Her guidance has been invaluable in shaping me into the person I am today. I am incredibly fortunate to have a parent who not only fostered my independence but continuously inspired and encouraged me to grow. Their unwavering support has molded me into the resilient individual I strive to be.

Website: https://www.essestarepro.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yanae-williams-6995ba196/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EsseStare

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/essestarepro

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Essestare00/

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/Essestare

Image Credits
Essestare Studio Photographer: Hasin Khan