We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany Noele Leonhart and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tiffany Noele, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Being a single mom with a hearing impairment, it was difficult finding employment in the mainstream market. As a child, my dad used to take photographs documenting our family and I became interested in photography. I got a Pentax camera in high school from parents as a gift and I never went anywhere without it. Since I was having difficulty finding employment, I thought what do I enjoy and how can I support my son. I started taking photographs of friends’ families documenting some of their special moments. They loved my work so much, they encouraged me to go for it, which I did.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I believe what sets me apart is my personal touch in making every client feel comfortable, beautiful, and very special, which they are.
What makes me proud is the fact that I am able to support my son while doing something that I am very passionate about.
Starting my business was challenging but I knew I could do it with the support of family and friends. It has not been easy as I have to juggle photo shoots with caring for my son, who is very active in school and extracurricular activities; however, with the help of friends and family I have been able to continue to pursue photography as my career.
I have learned that perseverance does pay off. Follow your dreams no matter how difficult or challenging they are. Giving up is not an option for me.
I would like everyone to know that each person, family, occasion, and moment is as special to me as it is to them. I do my utmost best to make each shoot personal to them and, hopefully, create a lasting impression with each one.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would hit the beach almost every day! My favorite beach is what us locals call Pierless, in Juno Beach. Activities we would pursue would include paddle boarding, a hike up the Jupiter Lighthouse, an early morning stroll through Riverbend Park, Clematis by Night, a day trip to Palm Beach Island to explore Worth Ave and see the Breakers Hotel, Clock Tower and the Colony Hotel and a stop through Abacoa to catch a Spring Training game. We would definitely stop at Top of the Beacon and Square Grouper for a before dinner cocktail.
Dinner plans would include Captain Charlie’s Reef Grill, Brick and Barrel Pub, Yu-Mi Sushi, Blackbird, The Cooper, Elisabetta’s, Lynora’s and the Pelican Cafe for brunch.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my growth to success to Stephanie Lynn Studios and Kimberly Smith Photo. They have been my biggest cheerleaders and supporters through this wonderful journey I have embarked upon.
Stephanie has allowed me to be an associate by having me cover her clients when she is unavailable. She provides any constructive criticism and new ideas on ways to improve my work whenever needed.
Kim is always willing and ready to answer any questions I may have on being a better photographer. Also, if she is unavailable for one of her shoots, she recommends me to her client, which has helped my business to grow.
Both of these ladies have encouraged me, supported me, and lifted me up throughout this wild ride. I cannot begin to thank them enough.
Website: www.tiffanynoelephotography.com
Instagram: instagram.com/tiffanynoelephotography