Meet Hope Cheatham | Photographer

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

Hi Hope, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As someone who struggles with anxiety on a daily basis, working a 9-5 was extremely difficult for me. After many hopeful beginnings in other fields, I discovered that I needed to create a career that allowed me to make my own schedule and have more control over my work. It has been frustrating to have my mental health issues prohibit me from living a “normal life”, but I am so thankful that it lead me to create a path that works for me. Photography has been a wonderful means of connection and creativity when I needed it most. I am grateful to have the opportunity to start a fulfilling and meaningful business that encourages me to be gentle and kind to myself and my needs. I am hopeful that through my work, I can help others love their authentic selves as well.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started getting into taking photos of the kids of close family friends and absolutely loved capturing the personalities of a sassy toddler or a goofy baby. That passion of mine hasn’t left, and today I have grown a love for taking photos that help my clients see their natural and unique beauty. I approach a portrait session from the standpoint that portraits are more than just a picture of yourself. They are a vessel that allows you to see how far you’ve come- how much you have changed. Getting photos done seems to make most people nervous, so I strive to create a time of relaxation, laughter, and reflection. In the past two years, I have lived in 3 different states. Starting a photography business without a lot of connections has been difficult. I have learned to have faith in myself and always reach out to people. Reaching out to other small businesses has been a great tool to meet more people and to gain exposure. The community around me has always been more willing to help than I thought.
Lastly, I would want potential clients to know how special I think it is to be trusted to document a moment in their life. I see it as a gift that for a hour or two I get to help them see their authentic and beautiful selves.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would definitely have to start our morning at Mandarin Coffee Stand in Pasadena or Intelligensia in Silver Lake. I have a deep love for a half-sweet latte and these beautiful shops have some of the best! Then we would head over to All Day Baby for THE BEST fried chicken biscuit. For some shopping, we would walk around Atwater Village and be sure to stop at Lucky Pig Vintage. I also love York Ave and Larchmont for some unique shops and the coolest location of Buck Mason. For some more yummy food, we definitely would have to stop by Amara in Pasadena for my favorite Arepas. Lastly, for the coolest drinks, we would go to Bar Stella in Silver Lake. After living here for a little over a year, I am thankful to have found such exciting and beautiful pockets around me. I love how small businesses can thrive here and are supported so well by the community.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Marcos, has been my rock throughout my struggle to find what career works for me. His constant encouragement and support allows me to pursue my goals. I am forever thankful for his kindness towards me.

Website: https://hopeacheatham.wixsite.com/hopecheathamphoto

Instagram: @hopecheathamphoto

Image Credits
for my headshot, Rob Flate