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

Hi Emily, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I didn’t think I’d be a real photographer so when I started at 15 I just called it “somewhat photography”. Well, I kept getting more and more friends and their friends asking for more photos. I had always enjoyed taking photos and I loved creating storyline within my photos. As I’ve progressed throughout the years I realized this was no longer a “somewhat” photography business but a legit one that I loved. So I renamed it Laced in Grace Photography. I’ve always been a hopeless romantic and nothing makes my heart happier than photographing someone’s important day. For some their adrenaline rush is sky diving or roller-coasters but for me it’s wedding photography. Knowing you can’t ever relive or recapture that moment is thrilling. I absolutely am so grateful for every wedding and client I meet.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Have you ever walled into an art museum and looked at all the portraits and paintings in the gallery? Have you ever stared at one image in particular for awhile and it just captivates you? What sets laced in grace photography apart from others is that I am always striving to create photos that make you feel something. If it’s your wedding I’m shooting I want you to relive your entire day when you receive your gallery. All those butterflies and warm fuzzy feelings come back when you look through them all.

Looking back from when I started in 2009 versus where I am now in 2021 I have had to overcome a lot in my career. Because I was so young when when I started I had to choose between shooting someone’s wedding or going to prom. When I was dating my now husband in the beginning we couldn’t go on dates on weekends because I worked so much. I put my career somedays over spending time with family and friends. I pour my heart and soul into every work I do but as time progressed I realized I was starting to tire out. I had no creativity it seemed and now I had no social life among friends. In recent years I’ve learned how to balance it all. Yes I love my job but I love my family and friends. I’ve made it a priority for my mental health to schedule those days off. I’m a happier wife, momma and now I am a better photographer because I’ve learned it’s okay to take breaks.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am based in north east Texas so there is a ton to do! One of my favorite things in the area is escape rooms. My husband and I love working together and trying to solve puzzles. You can find them just about anywhere! My favorite local food spot is Arturo’s Wood Fire Pizza located downtown Sulphur Springs, TX. Their homemade pizza and pasta is out of this world. While you’re in downtown check out the their glass bathroom which allows you to see out while going inside. Shops like Beauty Grace Boutique, The Jypsy Willow and Fox and Fig are a must! This area is so welcoming we love bringing our friends down here.

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 mother is the my biggest supporter. She has been there with me since day one of starting. Since I was in high school when I started she would be the one to drive me to all my sessions. We would show up to sessions and people would assume she’s the photographer and I was the assistant but it was the other way around. She would help me create storyline and carry props for stylized sessions. She has done everything for me and my business and I wouldn’t be the photographer I am without her.

Website: Www.lacedingracephotography.com

Instagram: Www.instagram.com/lacedingracephoto

Facebook: Www.facebook.com/somewhatphotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.