Connect
To Top

Story & Lesson Highlights with Cammel Hurse of Raleigh-Durham

Cammel Hurse shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Cammel, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
For me, one of the biggest things I misunderstood about my business early on was the importance of having a great network—and more importantly, knowing how to properly utilize that network. I used to think that if I just did great work, opportunities would naturally find me. While quality is key, I’ve learned that building strong relationships, staying connected, and actively engaging with my network is what truly opens doors. The right connections not only bring referrals, but also collaboration, guidance, and opportunities I would’ve never found on my own.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
First and foremost, I am a child of God and a follower of Jesus Christ. My faith shapes not only who I am, but also how I serve others. Second, I am the owner of Cammel’s Photography LLC, where we go beyond taking pictures—we tell stories. Every subject, whether it’s a person, a property, or a brand, has a unique narrative. Through captivating visuals, I strive to create imagery that moves hearts, sparks genuine interest, and elevates the people and businesses I work with.

For me, photography is more than a service—it’s a ministry of excellence, creativity, and integrity. My goal is always to help my clients shine by presenting their best selves to the world, while building lasting connections and trust through my work.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I wouldn’t say it shaped how I see the world, but it made me thank God that I didn’t allow my surroundings to dictate my perspective or my faith. About a year ago, I had a conversation with a friend who shared something that really touched me.
We hadn’t spoken or seen each other since I graduated high school in 2012, but he reminded me of those days when I was an upperclassman and he was still in middle school.

Back then, a lot of the other upperclassmen would bully the younger guys on the team. But I refused to stand by and watch—I made it a point to step in and protect them, including him. He told me that as someone bigger and stronger, I could have easily used that to impose my will on others, but instead I chose to be down-to-earth and kind. That choice left a lasting impression on him—it opened his eyes to the fact that he didn’t have to let his environment turn him into something he wasn’t, or run to the streets searching for family and brotherhood that was never really there.

I remember holding back tears as he shared that, because it hit me how God was using me even back then—at a time when I wasn’t even living right. Simply by choosing honesty, respect, and kindness, I had unknowingly helped someone else see a better way. That conversation reminded me that our character, even in small everyday choices, can become a testimony to others.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Stop holding back. If you outshine others, don’t blame yourself for their inability to rise to the occasion. Keep walking in your purpose and let your light shine.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One truth that’s foundational in my life is the value and importance of having fathers and father figures present in the lives of youth. For years, it seemed like society overlooked—or even forgot—the vital role men play. I’m grateful to see more people becoming comfortable speaking on that importance again.

Our young people need guidance, love, and presence—not absence. Being there as a father, mentor, or positive male influence can truly shape a life.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, my role, and my possessions, what would remain is my character, my faith, and the impact I’ve had on others. At the core, it’s my integrity, my love for the good people in my life, and my relationship with God that define who I am—not titles, things, or status. Everything else simply doesn’t matter.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: VoyageRaleigh is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Local Stories