Meet Dunice Harrell | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dunice Harrell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dunice, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
When you focus on aligning your business/career with your passion/purpose, talent and strengths, you don’t have to focus on the money because it will organically come to you.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Dunice Harrell Photography is unique in its mission to empower and inspire young adults through transformative portrait experiences. We specialize in senior portraits, headshots, and branding, focusing on celebrating the milestones and potential of high school and college graduates. Our dedication to affordability, quality, and personalization distinguishes us from mainstream studios. By offering professional photography services at reduced costs, we ensure that every student, regardless of financial circumstances, can have memorable and high-quality portraits.

I’m most proud of the ability to impact lives positively through photography. Seeing the confidence and pride in the eyes of young graduates as they see their portraits is incredibly rewarding. I’m excited about expanding our reach, developing new workshops, and creating more opportunities for young photographers through mentorship programs.

The journey to establishing Dunice Harrell Photography was fueled by a passion for capturing stories and a commitment to making professional photography accessible to underserved communities. It wasn’t easy. I faced some challenges like securing funding, finding affordable studio spaces, and building a client base from scratch. However, our unwavering commitment to our mission and the support of family, friends and our community helped us overcome these obstacles.

We overcame financial constraints by launching campaigns and seeking grants to support our vision. By offering flexible packages and building strong relationships with local schools and communities, we made our services more accessible. Our persistence in providing high-quality, personalized experiences, regardless of the price point, has been key to our success.

Lessons Learned
Persistence Pays Off: Stay committed to your vision, even when facing significant challenges.
Community Engagement: Building strong relationships within the community can create a supportive network that aids in overcoming obstacles.
Adaptability: Being flexible and open to new ideas and approaches is crucial in navigating the ups and downs of a business.

Brand/Story
Dunice Harrell Photography is more than just a photography business; it’s a mission to empower the next generation. We want the world to know that we are dedicated to capturing the unique stories, dreams, and achievements of young adults. Our work is a celebration of individuality and potential, helping young people see themselves in a positive light as they transition into new phases of their lives. Our story is one of passion, resilience, and a deep belief in the power of photography to inspire and transform.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Overeasy, a chic café located in the heart of downtown. Enjoy their delicious breakfast burritos and freshly brewed coffee.
Late Morning: Visit the Dallas Museum of Art. It’s free and features an impressive collection of art from around the world.
Afternoon: Head to Klyde Warren Park for a relaxing afternoon. This urban park offers food trucks, games, and live music. Grab lunch from one of the many food trucks, such as Ruthie’s Rolling Café for a gourmet grilled cheese.
Evening: Have dinner at Pecan Lodge in Deep Ellum, known for its mouth-watering BBQ. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife of Deep Ellum, with its eclectic mix of bars and live music venues. Adair’s Saloon is a great spot for live music and a cold beer.

Day 2: Arts and Culture
Morning: Enjoy brunch at Bread Winners Café & Bakery in Uptown, where you can indulge in their famous chicken and waffles.
Late Morning: Visit the Nasher Sculpture Center and stroll through the tranquil garden filled with modern sculptures.
Afternoon: Walk over to the Crow Museum of Asian Art to explore its beautiful exhibits.
Evening: Dine at Tei-An, a stylish Japanese restaurant in the Arts District, renowned for its soba noodles and exquisite sushi.

Day 3: History and Heritage
Morning: Have breakfast at Cindi’s NY Deli and Restaurant, where you can enjoy a classic New York-style breakfast.
Late Morning: Visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy.
Afternoon: Explore the Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park to experience historic Texas buildings and artifacts.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Rustic, a lively spot with farm-to-table fare and live music.

Day 4: Nature and Outdoors
Morning: Start with breakfast at Company Café on the Katy Trail, which offers healthy, locally-sourced dishes.
Late Morning: Rent bikes and ride along the Katy Trail, a beautiful urban trail perfect for cycling or walking.
Afternoon: Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden for a peaceful afternoon among beautiful flowers and scenic views of White Rock Lake.
Evening: Have dinner at Sundown at Granada, a farm-to-table restaurant with great views and a cozy atmosphere.

Day 5: Shopping and Entertainment
Morning: Breakfast at Houndstooth Coffee for some of the best coffee in Dallas.
Late Morning: Spend the day shopping at NorthPark Center, an upscale mall with a fantastic selection of stores and art installations.
Afternoon: Take a break and grab lunch at Seasons 52 inside NorthPark, known for its seasonal menu and healthy options.
Evening: Catch a show at the historic Majestic Theatre or the AT&T Performing Arts Center for a Broadway production or a concert.

Day 6: Adventure and Sports
Morning: Breakfast at Maple Leaf Diner, where you can enjoy a hearty, Canadian-inspired breakfast.
Late Morning: Head to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for an interactive and educational experience.
Afternoon: Visit the Dallas Zoo to see a wide variety of animals and enjoy the lush landscapes.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse, a premier steakhouse offering a luxurious dining experience. Afterward, catch a Dallas Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center if they’re in season.

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell
Morning: Start with a leisurely brunch at HG Sply Co. on Lower Greenville, known for its healthy, yet hearty dishes.
Late Morning: Spend the late morning exploring the shops and cafes of Bishop Arts District. Stop by Emporium Pies for a slice of delicious pie.
Afternoon: Visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum to round out your cultural experience.
Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Fearing’s Restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton, where you can enjoy innovative Southwestern cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Honorable Mentions:

Food & Drink: Velvet Taco, Perry’s Steakhouse, Truck Yard, Reunion Tower’s Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck.
Activities: Trinity Groves, Dallas Farmers Market, Fort Worth Stockyards (a short drive away).

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
All praise and recognition goes to GOD. My relationship with GOD keeps me grounded and my purpose clear. I naturally gravitate towards roles that empower, uplift and inspire others. I enjoy making GOD known and making a difference in the lives of others. So I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my savior, Jesus Christ.

Website: https://www.duniceharrell.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msdunicephotography/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msdunicephotography/

Image Credits
Dunice Harrell Photography