Remember when you started your own business? That quiet question that lingers in the background: Will I succeed … and what was I thinking?
Most of my articles focus on one local business at a time. This one is a double take. Two women, two new businesses. One shared truth: starting is not easy, but passion has a way of carrying you forward.
I met Lorraine and Maddy at a Valley Network event. Both are photographers, yet their paths, styles and stories reveal two very distinct approaches to capturing life through a lens.
Let’s Begin with Lorraine
Lorraine’s relationship with photography began early. She picked up her first camera at age 10, and what followed was not just a hobby, but a form of expression that quietly grew into a lifelong creative voice. She describes her work as storytelling, rooted in emotion, imagination and connection.
“I will strive to create an environment where you can feel safe and fully be yourself,” she says. “Whether you have a clear vision or just a feeling you want to capture, I will help bring it to life with gentle guidance. This is your story—I’m here to document it with care, intention and heart.”
Her style leans into authenticity. She avoids stiff posing, instead encouraging natural movement, interaction and presence so moments unfold rather than feel directed.
Lorraine also incorporates film photography into her work. Film photography uses physical film rather than digital sensors, creating a softer, textured image with warmth and grain that feels nostalgic and deeply human. It’s almost like holding onto a memory you can feel. Invites a slower, more intentional process that reflects her storytelling approach.
Now meet Maddy
Maddy’s journey into photography began in college, capturing friends, celebrations and everyday moments. What started as a creative outlet has grown into a business centered on connection, particularly in family and wedding photography, where relationships are at the heart of every image.
She shares, “I am a photographer with an easygoing style and a deep love for capturing people in their most genuine, joyful moments. I first picked up a camera in college, photographing friends at get-togethers and graduation celebrations.”
Maddy places strong emphasis on engagement sessions, relaxed pre-wedding shoots that build trust and comfort between photographer and couple. These sessions allow authentic moments to unfold naturally while creating space for couples to simply be themselves. This serves as a bridge, helping couples feel confident and connected before their wedding day.
Capturing Real Moments
Both women share a commitment to capturing real moments, yet their lenses focus differently. Lorraine leans into artistic storytelling with a poetic feel. Maddy brings relational warmth, capturing milestones that become part of a family’s history and stories that will be revisited for years.
Both are navigating the early stages of business, building visibility and marketing their work. They are establishing credibility while learning, adapting and growing in real time. For Maddy, this includes balancing motherhood and a healthy balance, while continuing to show up fully for her clients.
For both women, the winter season brings its own challenges; fewer bookings, increased competition and the ongoing effort to be seen and trusted in a crowded market. These are real behind-the-scenes moments that every new business owner faces, often unseen yet deeply felt.
Moving Forward
Yet what stood out most during our interview, was not the challenges, but their willingness to keep showing up with resilience, patience and a belief in the value they bring through their work.
Starting a business will always come with uncertainty. That part never changes. But what carries forward is courage, the kind that asks you to keep going even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.
Maddy and Lorraine are stepping in that courage, one photograph at a time.
If you are looking to capture a meaningful moment, explore their work: Maddy Malee Photography (maddymaleephotography.com) and Lorraine Michelle Photo (lorrainemichellephoto.com).
Janet Janssen, Communication Skills, Speaker Coach, Member of local Chambers Scotts Valley, Boulder Creek and Santa Cruz and serves on the Board of Leadership Santa Cruz County. Join her webinar, March 31. Register at janetjanssen.com/contact and type in the words “Speak Up.”
