Today we’d like to introduce you to Tarah Orcutt.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Photography has always been more than a creative outlet for me — it’s a way to preserve life’s most meaningful moments. After 22 years as a nurse caring for children and families, I’ve learned the importance of connection, compassion, and storytelling. Those lessons naturally led me to photography.
What began with capturing my own children, transpired into this business- TL Photography. While I have had a camera in my hand for 25 years, I took a leap and made this a professional business in 2019. My goal is to always to create an experience where every person feels valued, comfortable, and celebrated.
Whether I’m overseeing my busy pediatric clinics or photographing a couple’s wedding day, my passion is the same: honoring people and their stories. For me, photography isn’t just about images — it’s about people, moments, and memories that will last a lifetime. I feel so privileged to be a part of so many big life moments. And many clients become true friends.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like so many small business owners, my journey hasn’t been without challenges. Right after officially launching TL Photography and just creating my home studio, the world shut down due to COVID-19. What was supposed to be a season of growth quickly became a season of uncertainty, as sessions were canceled and so many things felt like they were on pause. It was difficult to find momentum again, but somehow I did. Slowly.
Most recently, I faced another setback when my social media accounts were hacked, and I lost the following I had worked so hard to build. Starting over from scratch was frustrating and disheartening, but it reminded me why I started in the first place: to serve my clients with heart and creativity, no matter what obstacles I encountered.
Through each struggle, I’ve learned to adapt, persevere, and stay true to my passion. Every challenge has only strengthened my commitment to my clients and my art. Someone who backs down? That’s not me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
At TL Photography, I specialize in weddings, family portraits, and boudoir. Each story is special, and I believe photography should reflect that.
I’m a true to life editor. I chase the light. If I can find a golden ray to illuminate my clients, it makes my day.
For my wedding clients, I curate customized timelines to make the day flow seamlessly and to ensure no special moment is missed. For boudoir and portrait sessions, I create a safe, relaxed environment that brings out confidence and authenticity.
What makes me unique is the way I combine my background as a nurse with my work as a photographer. With so many years of caring for children and families, I’ve learned how to connect with people in meaningful ways, to listen, and to put them at ease. I’m outgoing, maybe even a little quirky, and I want my clients to feel like they have known me for years even though we just met.
I prioritize inclusivity and diversity. Every person deserves to feel celebrated in front of the camera. Whether it’s an LGBTQ+ wedding, a blended family portrait, or a milestone that looks different than tradition, I embrace it wholeheartedly.
More than anything, I want my clients to feel seen, valued, and comfortable. Photography is not just about creating beautiful images — it’s about capturing real people, real love, and real life in its truest form.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I’ve learned the value of professional friendships and relationships in the industry. I’ve met so many talented humans along the way who inspire me and push me to keep learning. We collaborate, lift each other up, trade services, and refer clients. I know I still have so much room to grow, and I truly value mentorship and collaboration. Being able to learn from others and work together is something I hold close, and it keeps me excited about the future of TL Photography.
On a personal level, I’m learned how strong I am. I’m proud of being a single mom, building a successful career in nursing, and also starting a business from the ground up on my own. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth every step.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tarahleighphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/tarahleigh_tlphotography?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559023940573&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
These are all my images
