Inspiring Conversations with Andrea Murray of Andrea Murray Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Murray

Hi Andrea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My photography journey has evolved from a passion into a profession. This journey began in 2015 with a simple desire to capture events at my church. My first camera was a modest Canon point-and-shoot, but it opened my eyes to a whole new way of seeing people and the world. A few years later, I was asked by someone in my church to take pictures for their daughter’s senior year and thus, my photography business was birthed!

While working a very demanding 8-5 corporate job, I knew I wanted to channel my passion into something more creative. Balancing a full-time job while scheduling photo shoots on weekends was exhausting and challenging. I often found myself wishing I could turn photography into a full-time career, just to see where it might take me. Well, they say we should be careful what we ask for…

In 2020, with a clear nudge from God, I made the leap and left a stable well paying job in Corporate America. While this exit was not something I planned, it presented me the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a full-time photographer. I invested in new equipment, attended conferences, and focused on expanding my business knowledge, refining my skills, and building my portfolio. The journey was filled with late nights editing photos, countless hours researching how to run a business, and moments of doubt. But through it all, there was an undeniable sense of fulfillment, knowing I was walking in the direction of my passion.

Now, after 7 years in business, I’m incredibly proud of my journey. Looking back, it feels surreal to see how far I’ve come. What began as an act of obedience to God and a leap of faith has blossomed into a successful photography business that allows me to do what I truly love.

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?
Anyone who tells you that being an entrepreneur and starting a business is an easy feat, might not be telling you the truth! When I started, I had no roadmap to follow; and I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I had the passion, the camera and the drive, but did not know how to run a business. I had to learn marketing, finance, client management, social media… and that was on top of learning how to perfect my craft.

Starting a business required significant investments in purchasing high-quality equipment and software, building a website, while simultaneously dedicating time and money to classes, seminars, and conferences to refine my skills. But reality hit really hard: the income and profit does not come overnight. I found myself working long hours with little to show for it. On top of that, the photography market was crowded. While it’s not about direct competition, establishing a unique identity and finding the right niche and clients was and is essential for building a successful business.

I run my business solo which means wearing many hats and juggling numerous tasks. It’s been a time of learning, trial and error, and refining my skills without the support of a team or a clearly defined audience. But within that solitude, I’ve found something deeply rewarding. It’s in those quiet moments that I’ve been most in touch with my passion, my vision, and the art of capturing fleeting moments. Even though I’m working alone, I have built a personal legacy – one client and one session at a time. Despite the challenges, the journey has been incredibly fulfilling. Through it all, I’ve learned the value of persistence, patience, adaptability, and most importantly, trusting God’s timing.

Now, with a few years of experience under my belt, I am able to look back and see how far I’ve come. The journey hasn’t been easy – but, I wouldn’t change a thing. Starting my photography business has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but it’s also been one of the most rewarding.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Andrea Murray Photography is a multicultural photography business located in Holly Springs, North Carolina. As a photograpHER, I am all about capturing the beauty and authenticity of life’s most cherished moments. With a passion for creating timeless images that tell a story, I specialize in portrait photography, focusing on seizing individuals, couples, families, and women in their most genuine and empowered states. I’m known for my ability to balance candid, unscripted moments with posed portraits that highlight the unique essence of each person. Whether it’s through playful, music-filled studio sessions or more intimate, posed sessions, I’m dedicated to creating a comfortable environment where clients feel relaxed, confident, and celebrated.

I believe everyone deserves to feel truly seen, which is why my goal is to create a personalized experience for each client. I go beyond just taking pictures—I aim to craft an experience that connects on a deeper level. From the moment clients step into the studio, I focus on building a rapport filled with laughter, music, and authentic moments. My photography is about more than just a likeness; it’s about exploring and representing a person’s identity and sense of self. It’s about capturing their personality, inner world, and character in a way that truly reflects who they are—shaped by culture, gender, age, profession, or personal experiences. While I am deeply committed to all of my clients, my true passion lies in empowering women through portrait photography. I want to help them see themselves in a new light, embrace their natural beauty, and build their confidence.

The brand I have created is not just “taking pictures”. It’s about creating lasting friendships, memories, fostering self-love, and celebrating people exactly as they are. My services include headshots, family, personal portraits, special events and even capturing memorial services. My goal is always to offer a professional yet relaxed environment where clients can leave with images that truly reflect their authentic essence. My portrait session provide clients with access to make-up artists (who are also available as a referral) upon request.

Photography is really about PEOPLE and I am very proud of the way my work makes them feel. It has afforded me the opportunity to realize how blessed I have been to touch the lives of people I would not have otherwise ever met. I’ve had the honor of witnessing clients’ emotional reactions when they see their photos for the first time—tears of joy, confidence, and even surprise. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about capturing a moment that allows someone to see their true beauty, strength, and grace.

I am deeply committed to continually refining my craft as a top priority. To do so, I regularly attend workshops, seminars, and conferences, which not only help me grow as a photographer but also build trust with my clients by demonstrating my commitment to excellence. I want my clients to feel confident in my ability to deliver exceptional results, knowing I am always evolving and dedicated to providing the best possible service. This commitment to excellence is reflected in my active memberships with the Professional Photographers of North Carolina (PPNC) and the Professional Photographers of America (PPA).

How do you think about happiness?
I am happiest when being of service to others. There’s something deeply rewarding in knowing that my actions, no matter how small, can make a positive difference in someone else’s life. Helping others, whether through listening, supporting, or contributing in meaningful ways, gives me a sense of purpose and connection. It reminds me that we were put on this earth to “be ye helpers of one another”. It amazes me how a simple act of giving back creates such a ripple effect of kindness and positivity.

And I’m truly happiest, yes, you guessed it – when I have my camera in hand! Capturing moments, telling stories, and preserving memories for others brings me a deep sense of fulfillment and joy. As I continue to grow in my craft, I’m excited to meet and work with future clients, creating meaningful, timeless images that they can cherish for years to come. Every session is an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and create something beautiful, and I can’t wait for the next chapter of this incredible journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.andreamurrayphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreamurrayphotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063636216843
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/andrea-murray-photography-holly-springs