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

Hi Nicole, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Work life balance has been my biggest strength and weakness all at the same time. But because it has been such a weakness, it has also become one of my biggest priorities lately with my business. It is so easy to assume that as a business owner you can take on each and every roll on your own but that is nearly impossible. Within the last few years I have struggled with my own mental health because of the lack of balance between work and my real life. However, ever since I have prioritized boundaries in my personal and work life now I feel like I am finally able to give my business my full attention and my personal life the same. Overtime I have now hired an assistant, interns, and have allowed myself to give some of the responsibilities that I may not enjoy as much anymore to others that can do it for me. Hiring help was a game changer for me and truly allowed me to free up some time for myself so that I can prioritize my well being. Balance is truly so important because without it , you can get burnt out so much faster. Recognizing that I could not handle every aspect of my business on my own was the first thing I needed to acknowledge in order to get to the right balance for me.

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 am a wedding and elopement photographer based in Orange County, CA where I was born and raised all my life. I have a unique style that has pretty much carried me throughout my career. Early on when I first started my editing style replicated my brand, where I live, and also just my personality. I was different from a lot of other photographers but I liked that and felt that even though it was different, it was going to set me apart. I’ve been told that my personality is a huge strength that helps people feel comfortable in front of the camera as well. Overall, I have just always been consistent with my brand and my editing style and I think that my confidence in that has also helped me get to where I am today professionally. It was definitely not easy, and came with a ton of hardship but I am just proud of where I am today and would not change that. One thing that I have learned is to not compare yourself to others. SO many people struggle with this and it only sets you back. Being true to who you are is the best way to climb to the top. At the end of the day, there is only one of you so being confident in yourself will help you reach your goals quicker.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a friend visiting I would show her all my favorite orange county spots! We would start with one of m favorite beaches in Laguna either Shaws cove or Victoria beach then go grab some lunch at The Cliff in laguna. Drive up to the viewpoints and enjoy a little wine picnic at top of the world laguna and then end with some desert from Crumbl Cookies or Milk and Cookies. I love taking drives down PCH and going to spots all along the coast so I would make it a coastal week. Hop from place to place from Laguna, to Newport, to Huntington Beach enjoying some local restaurants along the way.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would not be able to have the success of my business without the support from my incredible husband. My husband has been my biggest fan and motivator since I first started. He has never stopped believing in me, even when I doubted myself. I also would not be where I am mentally and emotionally without my business partner Abbi Cooley. Having someone that can fully relate to you and your business during the ups and the downs is so important. I am so thankful to have someone that I can trust with business but also have as a friend. Lastly, my family and friends for always supporting me and cheering me on since day one!

Website: www.nicolekirshnerphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nicolekirshnerphotography

Facebook: www.facebook.com/nicolekirshnerphotography

Other: Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/nicolekirshnerphotography

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