Exploring Life & Business with Diana Wirtzfeld of Diana Shae Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Wirtzfeld

Hi Diana, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hey, I am Diana! My passion for photography has been a part of me for as long as I can remember. When I was younger, I would often experiment with a digital camera, imagining myself as a photographer. It wasn’t until my sophomore year of high school, that I began to seriously explore this field. I invested in my first camera and started creating sports videos for my high school teams. That experience allowed me to grow my platform and build my portfolio.

By my senior year, my focus began to shift. I found myself gravitating more toward photography, and it quickly became an outlet for creativity. I spent the past year, refining my skills, experimenting with different styles, and further expanding my portfolio. I eventually purchased a new camera, which marked a turning point in my growth as a photographer. I launched my first website to showcase my business and has been growing steadily since.

In August of 2024, I made a major life change by moving from Minnesota to Arizona to attend Grand Canyon University, where I am currently studying Children’s Psychology. While my academic focus is on psychology, photography remains an integral part of my life, and I continue to pursue it alongside my acedemics. The move has also opened up new opportunities for me in Phoenix, allowing me to expand my network and meet some amazing people!!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey starting a business hasn’t been entirely smooth, but that is what has been the most rewarding part of this journey! The largest challenge I have faced so far has been developing my style while creating images that truly reflect my vision. I strive to possess a unique style that produces images that I am in awe of as well as my clients. Learning proper marketing has been another challenge. As a photographer, you become your own social media manager and marketer, creating visually appealing content, responding to inquiries, etc. Despite the challenges, every aspect of this career is rewarding and fulfilling.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The time spent understanding my clients and their vision is what truly sets me apart. As a photographer, I heavily focus on delivering images that will resonate with the raw emotions in that moment. Specializing in senior, family & couple photography, it is important to take time to understand what my client is trying to communicate through the photos. The time before the photoshoot is equally as important as the photos themselves. Through my light, airy, & true to color style, I can capture story-telling photos. I am most proud of the connections I have gained in this field. I have had the humbling opportunity to work with some of my amazing clients, who have trusted me with capturing their milestones and memories.

What matters most to you? Why?
As a photographer, my primary focus lies in capturing the raw emotion and authentic stories in each moment. I strive for my work to reflect more than what appears visually but to capture love and connection. Equally as important to me is fostering meaningful relationships with my clients. I want to create a comfortable environment that allows for natural, genuine moments to unfold. My goal is not simply to take photos but to capture a story.

Pricing:

• Couples- $250
• Seniors/Graduates – $250/$300
• Mini Shoot – $175
• Family – $250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://dianawirtzfeld.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianashaephotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dianashaephotography

Image Credits
Photos taken by Katie Potter Photos, Edited by Diana Shae Photography