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

Hi Maegan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
The simple answer, because I love serving people with my art. The more detailed answer: When I was in Jr. High, I was the kid that always had a disposable camera in hand. I took photos of my friends, plants, animals, anything that I could. My love for photos carried into High School, and my walls were covered from top to bottom with images. After I graduated, I decided to pursue a career in Kinesiology because I loved sports. Well, other plans were about to unfold. My dad saw my love for photography, so he bought me my first DSLR. I had no idea what to do with it… I was confused why he even got it for me. He told me he saw something in me, a passion, and I should see where it takes me. So, just as I did with my disposable cameras, I started taking pictures of anything I could. It was obviously a game changer. I later asked a friend for tips and tricks on how to use my camera and she actually invited me to shoot a wedding with her. I was beyond nervous, but went anyway. From that day, I was hooked on weddings. I knew I had to make this my career. I ended up finishing my degree in Kinesiology, but I started my photography business while still in school. At first, I loved the aspect of getting to create. Posing my subjects. Capturing moments as they unfolded. But then a new side of photography captured my heart. When I would see reactions from clients or receive a thankful email after a session, I realized I wasn’t just doing this because it made me happy… I was serving them with my art. These moments in time would be cherished forever. It brought more joy to me and to the job knowing I was making my clients happy. So do what sets your soul on fire. Do what brings light into someone else’s life. You’ll never grow tired of it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
With photography, I try not to limit myself to one area. I shoot weddings, sports, weather, families, you name it. Weather is definitely my favorite! I’ve had the privilege to photograph the Texas Rangers and Dallas Stars as well. My career didn’t come easy at first. I had someone tell me I would fail and that photography was too competitive. Well, that just drove me even harder to make it happen. I self taught, took workshops, and never stopped learning. To this day, 10 years later, I’m still growing.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Okay, so I love food, LIKE A LOT, so I would take my friend to Ida Claire in Addison first. The cocktails are amazing, excellent food, even better service. The atmosphere is fantastic as well! Then we would go to Texas Live to watch the Rangers game on the big screen… you know, since no fans aren’t allowed in the stadium. Then I would head to downtown Fort Worth to walk around, stop at Reata for some dessert and drinks, then end the night at Pete’s Piano Bar. I’m a sucker for that place.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate this shoutout to my dad, Sam Hurd, and most of all, God. My dad saw something in me I never would have noticed. If it weren’t for him, I would never have picked up a DSLR. When I first started photography, I researched other photographers. Sam Hurd was the first one I came across and I’ve been inspired by his work ever since. I take his workshops every chance I get. He’s a great teacher and a very talented artist. Most importantly, God. He’s shaped me, molded me and brought all the right people into my life. Every person and every circumstance has been orchestrated to grow me into the person I am today. He’s opened doors in the world of photography that I never thought possible.

Website: www.maegapixels.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/maerachellephotography
Facebook: www.facebook.com/maegapixels

Image Credits
Mae Rachelle Photography Jeanna Rae Photography (Headshot)

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.