Daily Inspiration: Meet Chantel Miller

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chantel Miller.

Hi Chantel, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My photography journey began when my son was born 9 years ago. Prior to his birth, I had only picked up a camera occasionally while on vacation. However, following my son’s birth, I found myself with a camera in my hands at a moment’s notice.

I was completely enamored by how beautiful he was; his little nose, toes, fingers; the little smirks, and his milk-drunk grins. Every moment with him I felt I had to capture and this imminent feeling of fleeting time that I had to freeze in its tracks. My Husband bought me my first real camera, a Canon; and that very purchase catapulted me into a career I never dreamed could have happened.

Two short years after my son was born, my daughter came into this World, and with her birth, I was photographing more than ever. I began as many Photographers do; as a hobbyist and self-taught. It wasn’t until friends and friends of the family began reaching out to me to photograph their babies, children, and families that I had a talent I didn’t quite see myself, but others surely saw it in me. As years passed my hobby became much more of a passion and I dreamed big dreams that maybe one day I could become a professional Photographer.

In the midst of igniting this passion, I was juggling a 15-year career as a Veterinary Technician while raising two young children. I was at a point in my life where I felt I needed a change, to follow my dreams and take a leap of faith. I retired from my Veterinary Technician career and took an entire year to learn every possible thing I could about professional photography. I participated in workshops, seminars and was trained by some of the nation’s very best newborn and family photographers.

I officially opened up Chantel Miller Photography in the fall of 2018. Opening my small business has been the most incredible, yet challenging journey of my life, and every day and every opportunity to pick up my camera is a great one!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It certainly hasn’t been a smooth road. Running a small business is quite challenging and there is so much to learn.

Professional Photography is so much more than picking up a camera; there are hours and hours of pre and post work that most folks do not consider when booking a session; for example, editing, delivering gallery orders, scheduling appointments, creative/prep for sets prior to the session; bookkeeping, licensing, insurance, social media/web, and blogging; the list goes on and on.

You must be able to wear multiple hats all while providing exceptional Client Service, which is one attribute I pride me in.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most known for my newborn work and the majority of my work involves babies and young children. I have a very deep passion for newborn photography and my client say that passion shows.

I have been told I have a tremendous amount of patience and a knack for detail. I absolutely love being able to create beautiful photographs and have my clients visions come to life with imagery they can hang on their walls and pass down from generation to generation.

Contact Info:

• Email: Cmchantelmillerphotography@gmail.com
• Website: www.chantelmillerphotography.com
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/chantelmillerphotography
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/chantelmillerphotography/