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

Hi Shaina, how do you think about risk?
I believe that if you want to do something special or different with your life you HAVE to take risks. My original course was as cookie-cutter as it gets- college, internships, graduate, 9-5 job, marry, have kids- you know the story.

I’ve always had a strong trait of defiance in me, and I’m not sure anyone was really surprised when I announced I was pursuing a career in the arts. However, they sure were ready to tell me how risky it was. Truth be told that just pushed me further into my business. Taking the risks that I did, allowed me to fail over and over again until I figured it out. Solely because i had no expectations, guidelines, or restraints. Being afraid of being “risky” is an outdated way to think. The best decisions I’ve made have been risks, both in life and business.

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.
I don’t do what I do to make money, I do it to make my clients feel like the best versions of themselves. I pride myself on being able to make connections with others easily and figure out how i can cater to each unique person. The absolute biggest lesson I’ve learned is that I don’t live for other people, and their opinions do not matter at the end of the day. As long as I’m content with the work I have done that day, and did my best, I’m good. My entire brand is about inclusivity. I want to make the modeling industry more attainable for everyone. The “beauty standard” needs to burn out already. The only standard I have for my work is individuality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my best friend comes into town we like to just relax and catch up. We are in no way in a hurry to get anywhere. We’re both coffee fanatics, so we’d probably stop by one of the local coffee shops and get something to kick start our day. For our lunches we’d be sure to eat at the iconic Mama’s Daughters’ Diner and Big State located in Southside Irving. Shopping at the Galleria in Dallas, or really anywhere, is a must. As well as impromptu photoshoots in downtown Dallas. We’d probably wrap up each night by getting a smoothie or ice cream from just about anywhere before headed back to the house to watch our favorite movies.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest inspiration is my mother, Donna, even though she is no longer with us, she had the strongest influence in my career. She was an amazing portrait photographer, and I feel a sort of connection to her every time I hold a camera.

I’d also like to recognize my family and friends that have shown me unconditional support and have since the beginning of my journey. Truly amazing to know I always have people in my corner that constantly give love.

Website: https://www.shainawillinghamphotography.com/

Instagram: Shainawilli_ & Shaina.b.photos

Linkedin: Shaina willingham

Facebook: Shaina willingham

Other: Tiktok- unsponsored.obsessions

Image Credits
Kaitlyn Fleming

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