Meet Yehleen Gaffney | Wedding-Portrait Photographer

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

Hi Yehleen, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever made was leaving my regular job to start full time with photography business. The thoughts of making it or not in this industry was scary for me. But looking back now, I am very thankful for making that decision.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a wedding-portrait photographer for 7 years now. I am so blessed and thankful that I get to do this job that I love so much. It’s my passion and I put my whole heart into it.

When I started this journey I never thought I would make this far because there were so many people I knew who criticized me for it. Some would say “she’s not going to make it, she didn’t even go to photography school”.

I was hurt when I heard some negativity from the people I knew (ex-friends) but I used it as my motivation. The more hates I got, the more I worked harder onto my goals. I knew in my heart that this was something I wanted to continue to do. I had to be tough and didn’t let negativity bring me down.

Because of this job, I met a lot of amazing people and they are my clients. In fact, a lot of my clients became my friends. Some of them even treated me like I am part of their family.

One big lesson I learned is to never give up on something that you want to do in life and work hard for it.

I hear this from a lot of clients before that they are nervous before their sessions. But with Yehleen photography, they have nothing to worry about it. I’ll make it fun and very comfortable for them. My goal each time is to make my clients happy.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live in Covington/Mandeville area. This little towns has a lot to offer.

If you want some great Vietnamese food “pho cong” is the best place to go. Zen Sushi Restaurant for sure if you want some great and delicious Japanese food. Not only the foods are delicious – the people are amazing too.

For nice and formal dinner I’d recommend Desi’s VEGA restaurant. This is my favorite place to go for special dinner when I get a break from shootings.

If one wants to just go hiking and enjoy the scenery. I will recommend Fontainebleau state park. I say this many times we are so blessed to have such a beautiful park. I go there a lot for work but even on my days off I go there just to enjoy and relax.

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?
I dedicate this Shoutout to my husband for being the best supporter and # 1 fan. 😃 I wouldn’t be able to make it where I am at now in this career without his full supports. Even-though he has his own full-time job, he is always there for me especially with my wedding jobs.

Website: www.yehleenphotography.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/yehleenphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YehleenPhotography?mibextid=LQQJ4d