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

Hi Hannah, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process behind starting my own business stemmed from years of working various jobs where I often felt stuck and limited in my creative expression. I realized that these roles, while valuable in their own way, didn’t allow me the freedom to fully explore and utilize my creativity. I wanted the ability to create something truly my own, where I could make the decisions and set the direction. Being my own boss not only gives me that creative freedom but also allows me to set my own schedule, which is something I truly value.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My photography style leans towards being warm, intimate, and natural. My images focus on capturing candid moments, emotions, and the beauty of whats happening in front of us. When I am at a shoot I try to highlight love and joy in a natural and unposed way.

This journey has been years in the making. Through support of a great community, mentorships, my faith, and trial and error I’ve grown to be the photographer I am today.

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 love this question, because west Michigan is so beautiful and I love to show off my state! I would definitely bring my guest to the lakeshore, Lake Michigan and the surrounding bodies of water here are unforgettable. So many great parks and hikes like Rosey Mound Natural Area. We would spend some time shopping in downtown Holland, MI. Visit the local shops and restaurants. We would hit up the Windmill restaurant for breakfast and Salt and Pepper for dinner. But also we cannot skip Bowerman’s on 8th for their blueberry pastries. Then end the night at New Holland Brewery for great apps and drinks!

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 want to give a huge shoutout to my friend Therese Shaw. She took me under her wing and taught me so much about the art and technique of photography. When I had never even held a camera before she threw one into my hands and brought me along to photoshoots and weddings, and it’s because of her that I fell in love with photography. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her support and encouragement.

Website: https://www.hannahallysephotography.com/

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

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

Image Credits
Hannah Allyse Photography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.