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

Hi Cheri, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my Cheri Root Photography business over ten years ago in my early 40’s but honestly it was a long time coming. It took some life circumstances to change and a lot of encouragement from my husband to realize it was a possibility. My thought process actually began in high school where the dream of becoming a photographer started and grew. Throughout the years I thought about it and what it would look like to have my own business but I never took the leap. Once I moved to Florida and started craving something more in life those thoughts of starting my own photography business bubbled back up. I went through all the typical “starting a business” thoughts-financial, time, talent and this time I didn’t let fear win. I kind of just jumped in, learned as I went and created a business I love and am proud of.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My photography is how I show my heart. I am an introvert so being able to have a way to express myself is truly a gift. Several years ago I made a transition in my photography style from a more posed style to a more relaxed experience and it made all the difference for me and for those in front of my camera. I want those that I photograph to feel even more connected after their photo session. I desire for my work to convey that emotion and feeling that is happening in front of me and for my clients to look at their images and see how amazing they are! The transition to a more relaxed way of shooting was not easy being an introvert. Getting in touch with my own raw emotion and allowing that to be seen was part of the process and the more I did it the easier it got. What helps me most is to focus on the kids at my sessions. I feel such a connection to the free spirit of a child and allowing myself that same freeness is what guides me through each session. My entire brand is built around telling each families story and showing how very cool that is!

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I’ve only lived in the DFW area for six years myself and feel there is still so much to explore. A fun week with a friend in the city would include some Texas BBQ for sure-probably Pecan Lodge or Cattleack BBQ, paddle boarding on one of the beautiful lakes in the area, good Tex-Mex (my favorite is Chuys), a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art, a walk through the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, a little shopping in downtown McKinney, grabbing a Steel City Pop at some point and a trip to the Margaret Hunt Hill pedestrian bridge to take in the Dallas skyline.

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?
My husband is definitely my shoutout. My fear of failure in such a creative world was destroying my confidence. He gave that back to me. He was the one that said, “go for it! who cares what anyone else thinks!” Because of his encouragement I was able to grow as a photographer and realize that I was doing this for me. Diving into my own world as a photographer was just what I needed and he knew that and gently pushed me along. For over 10 years he has been my support and deserves the credit and recognition for me being able to create what I did.

Website: www.cheriroot.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cherirootphotography
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/cheriroot
Twitter: www.twitter.com/cheriroot
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cherirootphotography