Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanya Nygard.
Tanya, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born and raised in small-town Iowa. One of those towns where there’s not a lot of change. When it came time to leave for college, I took my opportunity to get out of that town. I have always been a creative person, but I was so lost in college. I had no idea where I wanted to go with my art because I could do it all from drawing and painting to ceramics and sculpting. After my second year of college, I found out my classes weren’t going to be able to transfer. I was broke and devastated. I knew I wouldn’t be able to afford to go to a University because I was scraping by to pay for the community college classes. I was determined to make use of my time spent and the knowledge I obtained. I finished the remainder of the photography classes the school offered and added business classes into the mix.
November 2011, I thought “here goes nothing” and I launched my photography business. I was 21 at the time and honestly had no idea what I was doing. There was still so much for me to learn. The first of that was to find my passion. Coming from a big family, it wasn’t a surprise to me that my passion lies in family photography. From couples growing their family for the first time to extended family gatherings, I love it all.
I relocated to Phoenix in 2016 and started working alongside more business professionals. I started meeting with a business coach who helped me hone in on my focus. I still work with families and help them capture their memories, but have stepped into branding photography as well. We have reached an era where it seems everyone has that side hustle, so I love being able to shine the light on those out there giving their all to make it in this world.
Has it been a smooth road?
Some of the obstetrics I had to overcome was my own self-doubts. Like many, I got stuck at that point where I was comparing what I was doing with work I was seeing online. The saying “comparison is killer for success” holds so much truth because it only hinders growth.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Tanya Nygard Photography – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in family lifestyle photography and branding. I love capturing photos of people doing what they love and what brings them joy. When it comes to family sessions, I really like to see the sense of wonder that children have, if I can capture them exploring that’s even better!
Who have you been inspired by?
I’m not sure if I have any particular women I would say are idols for me. However, I applaud and look up to those who continue to fight through their struggles. Those who put forth their best efforts day in and day out are the most inspiring to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tanyanygardphotography.com
- Phone: 480-382-5503
- Email: hello@tanyanygardphotography.com
- Instagram: Tanya_nygardphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TanyaNygardPhotography/
Image Credit:
The image of me – Tim Chow
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