Meet Shirley Lee | Grand Rapids Wedding & Lifestyle Photographer

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

Hi Shirley, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk is a big part of doing anything, especially in business. I don’t see risk as just a chance you take; it’s more like making a careful decision to move forward, even when things are uncertain. It’s like taking a leap of faith, but you have to do it if you want to achieve your goals.Taking risks has been really important for me. It’s helped me grow personally and professionally, and it’s shaped some important moments in my life and career.

Leaving my native Cuba to immigrate to the United States was undoubtedly one of the most significant risks I’ve taken. It meant leaving behind everything I knew for a chance at something better. Similarly, when I decided to pursue my degree at Calvin University in Michigan, I embarked on a journey far from home, navigating challenges and opportunities in an unfamiliar environment.

More recently, starting my own photography business was a big risk too. Despite lacking experience in business, marketing, and even photography initially, I chose to dive headfirst into entrepreneurship. It was scary at first, but it opened up so many opportunities for me.

Ultimately, risk-taking isn’t merely about the chance of failure; it’s about the potential for growth and fulfillment. By daring to step outside my comfort zone, I’ve encountered opportunities that have enriched my life and helped my career grow.Taking risks doesn’t stop once you start your business. You have to keep taking them to grow and succeed. Overall, taking calculated risks has been crucial for both my personal growth and my journey as an entrepreneur.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’m thrilled to share more about ShirLee Photography, a venture that’s truly a reflection of my passion and dedication. Something a bit interesting about my business is its name, which is a fusion of my first and last name – Shir (first part of my name) and Lee (my last name). Although often misspelled as “Shirlee,” my name is actually “Shirley.”

What sets ShirLee Photography apart is my commitment to providing a balance between fair pricing and exceptional quality. I take pride in offering competitive rates without compromising on the standard of my work. What excites me most is the opportunity to infuse creativity into each client session, crafting images that truly feel and look like them.

Getting to where I am today in my business journey has been a testament to hard work, perseverance, and unwavering passion. While it hasn’t been easy, turning my dream into a tangible goal required strategic planning and relentless determination. Challenges such as navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, finding my photography style, and securing necessary resources like gear were met with patience and trust in God’s guidance.

What I want the world to know about my story is that “success”, whatever that means for you, is within reach for anyone willing to persevere. As an immigrant who initially knew no English and had no prior knowledge of business or photography, I’ve defied odds to pursue my passion. The key for me has been relentless persistence and staying focused on my goals.

Despite being relatively new to the industry and the business world, I’ve already surpassed many of my initial goals and transitioned to full-time photography within just two years of starting my business. However, I recognize there’s always room for growth and improvement. I’m eager to continue learning, sharpen my skills, and embracing new opportunities as they arise.

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?
If my best friend were in town, I’d want to show them some of my favorite spots in Grand Rapids, even though I’m more of a homebody. One place we’d definitely have to hit up is Peppino’s Sports Grille & Pizzeria. I’m a sucker for pizza, and their pies never disappoint. It’s a laid-back spot with a great atmosphere for catching up and enjoying a slice or two. For breakfast, there’s no better place than The Red Geranium Cafe. Their omelets are to die for, and it’s always a cozy and welcoming spot to start the day.

I also love spending time outdoors, so I’d take them to some of the surrounding parks. Grand Ravines and Millenium Park are perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. And a trip to Lake Michigan is always a treat, whether it’s soaking up the sun at Holland State Park or enjoying some ice cream by the waterfront.

While I may not be the biggest fan of going out, these are some of the places I love in Grand Rapids and would want to share with my best friend to ensure they have a great time during their visit.

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?
In reflecting on my journey, I’m humbled to acknowledge the grace that has guided every step I’ve taken. My success, if I may call it such, is a testament to God’s unwavering support and blessings. It’s through His grace that I’ve found the courage to pursue my passions and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

I’m also deeply grateful for the unwavering support and encouragement of my husband. His belief in me and his steadfast presence have been a source of strength and inspiration. Together, we’ve embraced the journey of turning my passion for photography into a meaningful business venture.

In addition, I owe a debt of gratitude to the clients who have entrusted me with capturing their most cherished moments. Their trust and loyalty have not only fueled my business but have enriched my life in countless ways. I’m truly humbled by their support and the opportunity to be a part of their journeys.

I’m also thankful for the fellow photographers who welcomed me with open arms when I was just starting out. Their willingness to work with me, even when I had zero experience, has been very important. In an industry often marked by competition, their spirit of collaboration has been a refreshing reminder of the power of community.

In essence, my journey is a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and collaboration. With God’s grace and the support of cherished clients and colleagues, I’ve been able to turn my dreams into reality.

Website: https://www.shirleephotography.com/

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SLeeGR.Photography

Image Credits
ShirLee Photography LLC