Meet Alli Stelling | Lifestyle Photographer

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

Hi Alli, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I believe the most important factor behind any successful business or brand is your “why.” I have been doing photography since I was about 17 years old, so almost 18 years now but only really decided to turn it into a full-time business 5 years ago. This is when my first son was born and began my journey of finding out my “why.” Before kids, I did photography for fun. I loved it but never pushed myself out of my comfort zone because I didn’t need to. I had other jobs, I had free time, I didn’t have a reason to own my own business.
When my son was born, I knew I wanted to stay home with him but I also knew I needed to help support and provide for my family. After some time of thinking of how I could do this, I realized I was sitting on a gold mine. If I could really put the work in and turn my love for photography into a business, I could stay home with my son (and future children) and help provide for my family.
Because I have such a HUGE reason why behind my business, I know I won’t give up on the work. If I stop working, I won’t be able to have the life I want and the life that is best for my family. My family means the most to me and they will always push me to be the best I can be and that applies to me running my own business that allows me to have time with them while also providing for our family and still being able to continue my passion for photography.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It’s obvious that photography is a very saturated field for business so you really need something special to stand out. I believe, for me, it’s my ability to capture the real life moments and really tell a family’s story. One of the best compliments I get from my clients is that I captured them exactly how they really are. The fact that I can give these special moments to people and be able to show the emotion and personalities of each family, is so special.
Me realizing this did not come easy. When I first started my photography business, I really struggled with imposter syndrome. I constantly compared myself to every other photographer out there and never thought I was good enough to turn my passion into something bigger. Once I realized my “super power” of capturing real life, I understood why I was given this gift and now have confidence to continue in my business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would setup breakfast or brunch down by the beach, either Dana point or San Clemente. We’d do dinner and drinks in Laguna beach or Newport Beach.

I’d, of course, have to do a Disney day.

Depending on the season, we’d do whatever events are going on. If it was summer, we’d check out the fair or Costa Mesa speedway. If it’s fall/winter, we’d do wine tasting at Rancho capistrano or do some sort of holiday light snow.

For extra things to do, whale watching, Duffy boats, balboa island. I think, for me personally, spending the most time down by the beach would be the best!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I couldn’t talk about my passion for photography without recognizing my high school photography teacher, Mr. Tsang at Mission Viejo High School. He really jumpstarted my passion and love for this art. Next, would be my family and friends for continuing to remind me about my talents and support me in my business.

Website: www.allistellingphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Alli.stellingphotography