Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Meadows.
Hi Michelle, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My photography story is certainly not linear. For as long as I can remember, I have always loved photography. I remember taking pictures at Gettysburg and Lake Tahoe at a very early age, burning through multiple rolls of film. I find the storytelling and composition the most fascinating parts of photography.
It’s my favorite part when creating composite art. My husband got me a new camera on our first wedding anniversary and a newer camera a few years later at Christmas. Art is a different part of the story. When my daughter was 7, she heard a word from God about having an art gala and donating to orphanages and Children’s ministries in Africa.
Fast forward many years later, and we were able to do exactly what the Lord had asked, and eventually For His Glory Art and Photography LLC was born. The whole family volunteers time and we use this business as a way to minister to others. Recently, I was honored to be able to lead a group at Reidsville Baptist in a painting class.
It was a new way to minister and enjoy time with my community.
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?
Honestly, there are still struggles, but I believe that is part of the learning process and adventure. I work full-time as an OCD specialist and part-time as a Certified Group Fitness Instructor. So, as you can imagine, time is precious, and I do often dream of a day to be able to spend more time creating.
I don’t know about other artists/photographers, but space is often something that becomes a struggle. I love a good prop! Unfortunately, space is currently quite limited, and I have to be selective in what I bring into the home studio. Another struggle is putting myself out there in the creative world. It can be a humbling and exposing space.
I often suggest to others there is room for them to create and share their gifts and sometimes forget to encourage myself. I am reminded art is not a competition, but a journey and truly a part of the Creator. Not everyone understands or values the work I put out there, and that’s ok too.
I am grateful God is faithful and continues to provide amazing clients that allow me the freedom to tell their stories and create.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I consider myself a Creative Portrait Photographer. My passion is Composite Art/Photography. It’s a bit thrilling to take the story in my mind and put it into action through art and photography. Brooke Shaden said one time in a class I was taking how valuable Self Portraiture was to understand how to pose models and develop stories.
I never forgot what she said and have recently begun growing through Self Portraiture. It’s truly more challenging than it looks! I also enjoy Senior Photography, Headshots/studio sessions, Wedding Photography, Family Photography, and Landscape/Nature Photography. I think my team sets me apart. I have a caring and invested family and they make taking photographs an enjoyable experience for my clients.
They allow me to create a story with the photos and watch art come alive through the lens. I also use my art as a way to spread the Gospel and I often include, in my social media posts, the Scripture which inspired the creation through my composites.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
First and foremost, I am thankful for the vision and direction God constantly gives in regard to art, photography, and ministry. He is a provider! I couldn’t do any of this without the support of my family.
My husband, daughter, and sons take an active role in not only the support of hauling gear and talking with clients, but the creative process and often modeling. My parents have always encouraged me whether it’s through letting me develop rolls and rolls of film when I was young to currently displaying my art in their homes.
They also helped me by challenging me in my art and photography. I draw a lot of inspiration from Brooke Shaden, whom I already mentioned. I find her work truly mesmerizing. I remember and am thankful for those who supported the first Art for Africa event, particularly Juliet Tarver, who was a cheerleader from the start.
I was deeply honored by those who purchased my art at that event. Their support gave me the confidence to branch out and find my true creative passion with composite photography. Additionally, the loyal photography clients who trust me to capture their special moments allow me to continue to create. I am thankful for each of them!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://forhisgloryartandp.wixsite.com/fhglory
- Instagram: @ForHisGloryArtandPhotographyLLC
- Facebook: @ForHisGloryArtandPhotography
