Today we’d like to introduce you to Dalena Carroll.
Hi Dalena, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always loved beauty and arts. Unfortunately, I was discouraged from pursuing them when I was younger. I married right out of high school and had two precious boys that I love dearly.
In 2001 I went through a really nasty divorce and ended up moving to Knoxville in 2002. During my divorce, I parted with my Nikon film camera not really realizing how much of a passion I truly had for photography until much later in life. I’ve always loved photography for as long as I can remember and was always the girl with a camera taking photos at events and when out with friends, family, etc. However, I really didn’t know much about photography until I met my husband, Dave.
Fast forward to 2011, I met Dave online through a local photography Facebook group and the rest is history!! He bought me my first mirrorless camera in 2012 and has taught me so much about photography. It was then that I realized my true passion for photography. I’ve continued pursuing and learning as much as possible, attending workshops, conferences and mentor sessions, etc. In 2017 things started progressing & I decided to open my business.
In 2018 I met a young lady that changed my life & made me realize I wanted to use my photography to make a difference in the lives of others. I want to be a positive influence, to inspire and uplift people, especially our youth or anyone struggling with self-confidence or any other way. I love capturing the pure essence, heart & soul of a person. I also love capturing raw emotion, freezing that special memory or moment in time so it’s never lost or forgotten.
Since opening my business I’ve had numerous publications with Behind the Shutter magazine, Better Homes and Gardens, the LFI Gallery and was chosen as one of the Top 25 Most Influential Teen Photographers of 2018. I’ve met so many amazing people that have influenced and impacted my photography journey and I’m forever grateful.
I’m loving this photography journey and excited to see where all it takes me.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Absolutely not! I’m an extroverted introvert so putting myself out there has been a huge struggle. There’s been lots of highs and lows, criticisms from others, and lots of self-doubts. It has definitely been an emotional roller coaster ride but it’s been worth every single minute!! I’m super thankful for all of the amazing supportive friends and clients in my life!!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a people photographer. I specialize in photographing kids, teens, seniors, and families. I’m known for my love of light and the ability to connect and capture connections with my clients. I’m most proud of how far I’ve come from the girl with a camera to where I’m at today, including my amazing clients and publications.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I honestly don’t remember a lot about my childhood. I guess I would have to say when my great aunt and uncle surprised me with a baby duck on Easter. I remember building the duck a little swimming pool & slide and also putting it in the bubble bath with me. I loved that little duck so much!
Contact Info:
- Email: deecarrollphoto@gmail.
com - Website: https://
deecarrollphoto.com - Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/deecarrollphoto - Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/deecarrollphoto - Other: https://www.pinterest.
com/deecarrollphoto
Image Credits
Dave Carroll
