Meet Melanie Sidlow | Photographer

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

Hi Melanie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I am a huge risk taker. Taking risk can be so nerve-wrecking but it’s also one of the best things that I have chosen as business owner and photographer. Recently, I was having lunch with a friend who has been in the photography business for more than 10 years and asked me how I’d reached where I am now in only 4 years. My answer was simple – risk-taking was at the core of my journey! From reaching out to other photographers, potential clients, and participating in styled shoots, risk taking helped me work harder to get where I am right now.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Embarking on my journey as a full-time Elopement and Wedding photographer five years ago has been a mixture of sheer excitement and occasional challenges, but I must admit that pressing on has been one of the most fulfilling choices I’ve ever made. My passion for photography blossomed during my time living abroad in the Dominican Republic, where I was able to connect with locals and express my own experiences through the lens of my camera. As I ventured into the world of entrepreneurship, I quickly realized the importance of staying true to oneself and maintaining focus on personal goals. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, but I have discovered that doing so only hinders us from fully embracing our unique identity and reaching our highest potential in both life and business. So if you ever find yourself treading a similar path, remember to stay authentic, hone in on your dreams, and relish the adventure that unfolds every step of the way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh my gosh, if you’re anything like me—a travel enthusiast with a knack for planning—it’s so difficult to choose just one recommendation for an incredible vacation destination. Well, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorites: the Dominican Republic! This vibrant country is home to some of the friendliest and warmest people you’ll ever meet. I highly suggest kicking off your adventure in the bustling city of Santo Domingo, where you can explore the historic Colonial Zone. But the excitement doesn’t end there! Embark on a scenic 6-hour drive to heavenly Punta Cana, where the remainder of your trip awaits. And, of course, we can’t forget about the mouth-watering local cuisine, featuring dish staples like plantains, meat, rice, beans, and heavenly coc de leche for dessert. Trust me, the Dominican Republic will absolutely steal your heart!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This is a GREAT question. I feel there is not one person, however I am forever grateful to my husband who LITERALLY has not only supported me, but encouraged me to do what I love, which is capturing peoples love stories and family stories through photos! I am also beyond blessed to have my mom who has been so incredibly encouraging!

Website: www.melaniehunleyphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/melaniehunleyphotography

Facebook: Melanie Hunley Photography

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/melanie-hunley-photography-monarch-bay

Image Credits
Melanie Hunley Photography