Meet Darcy Graf | Family & Couples Photographer, Martial Arts and Gym Owner

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

Hi Darcy, what role has risk played in your life or career?

I absolutely LOVE this topic because I LOVE taking risks! To me, risk equates to growth no matter what the outcome! In both my personal and professional lives, taking those big steps towards my goals were paramount to me ultimately achieving them. I grew up as a competitive athlete in the sport of Taekwondo. It taught me A TON about risk taking. Many of us (myself included) have a fear of failure, fear that we aren’t good enough. But these fears can majorly inhibit our success because achieving big goals and being successful won’t just fall into your lap.

There is a saying that if your goal doesn’t scare you, it’s not big enough. I couldn’t agree more. I like to dream big, shoot high and go for the lofty goals I have set. In this way, I’m constantly evolving as a person and businesswoman. I will say, however, that I don’t take on risks without proper preparation and the hard work to make it happen. I remember the first time I held a camera in my hand. I had no idea what I was doing. But I knew I wanted to bottle time and capture priceless moments. It took MANY MANY less than perfect photos and tons of practice to evolve into the artist I am today and I continue to work on my craft. If I quit taking photos after the first 1000 bad ones, I would never be the photographer I am today!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an emotive lifestyle family and couples photographer. During my photoshoots, I seek to uncover the raw, authentic emotions that arise while the family or couples interact. I do very little posing as I seek to capture what makes you, you! Even though I’ve been a photographer for years, I continue to evolve and grow and I’m constantly excited about the next shoot, workshop or opportunity because it is sure to make me a better artist.

The creative fields are so exciting because you can constantly innovate, change and grow all while staying true to the goal of capturing special moments! As a mother of 2, I know how quickly little ones grow up and that’s why the photographs I have of them are so very priceless!

If you chose me to be your memory keeper, I want you to know that I take it as a huge honor and privilege and I vow to capture the very essence of you and your loved ones!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh this is fun because anyone that comes to visit me knows that it’s basically a wellness retreat! My husband and I own CrossFit Threshold and Believe Martial Arts so the first thing on the agenda is a good workout. We will follow that up with some recovery at home with the sauna, massage chair and pool. Then, you’ll be ready for your photoshoot with me at the beach!

Of course, we will have to eat at some point and then we’d head out to Cerverceria La Tropical which is a great place in Wynwood to relax and hang out!

I ALWAYS take friends who come to visit on a cruise with Happy Cruises because it’s a chance to see the sunset and city of Miami in a very relaxing way.

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?
Ah, I love this! We wouldn’t be where we are today without our village! First and foremost, I’m grateful for my amazing husband, Antony Graf, who supports me every time I run off to the boonies for a photography retreat and has supported me every step of the way! I also have to thank my sweet mama, Linda Kimmich, who pushes me to grow and is my number one cheerleader. I have the most amazing family and friends and they all have played such a huge role in supporting me throughout the years!

Instagram: @darcygrafphoto

Facebook: Darcy Graf Photography