Terrie Nelson

I first came across Terrie Nelson’s work on Instagram sometime last year and was INSTANTLY drawn to her muted tones & simplistic styling. Which literally is the way to my heart! So of course I fell in love with her work & knew I just had to feature her on Belle Lumière so everyone else could fall in love with her & her work too, if you haven’t already.

For those of you who don’t know Terrie, she is a fine art photographer based in Plant City, Florida who specializes in creating timeless, clean and classic romantic photography. She is a huge comedy fan (any other The office fans on here) & a working mama – you go girl!

Terrie also offers education for other photographers in the form of workshops & shootouts. The best part is she offers and teaches these with her husband, Matt, who she is madly in love with (how sweet is that). She also offers a digital guide that covers planning your very own styled shoot. So if that is something you are looking to jump into in the near future, definitely check it out.

You can see more of Terrie’s work by visiting her website and following her on IG. And then you can get to know Terrie a little better by reading our little interview with her below & soaking up a few of Terrie’s favorite images.

Website | IG | Education

1. Share with us a little bit about your journey with photography and how/why you started building your business? 

Every time I take a photo, I feel like I’m a part of something bigger than me. I feel like I’m able to serve others and be creative. I’m definitely creative at heart and there were many times where I explored being creative in my life but it didn’t stick and I wasn’t happy doing it. Every time I chose photography, I chose stepping out of my comfort zone and every time I stepped out of my comfort zone, I found self love. Photography for me has helped me be more confident in the decisions I make, be up for challenges , and connect with the most amazing people! I truly love what I do! It has really been a journey of self improvement as I build my business. 

2. What niche do you specialize in and why did you choose that path?

I am so fascinated with details and I’m amazed at how one simple detail can transform an entire scene. With that said we love details and editorial shoots. We often host and curate workshops for fellow creatives who love details as much as we do. We love creating and truly hope to inspire others as we continue to grow. 

3. What is the best piece of advice you can give someone in our industry, new or seasoned?

I would say to be authentic and not to compare yourself to others! 

4. Who are three photographers that inspire you & why?

• Elizabeth Messina, her photos always strike emotion. 

• D’Arcy Benicosa, I love how she crafts muted tones. I am obsessed with muted tones and the timeless feel to her photos. 

• Jose Villa, I’m sure he is no surprise. He captures light and he was the first person to inspire me to try film. 

5. Will you share with us one fun or unique fact about yourself.

Before going into weddings, I was all about vlogging about natural hair! I love a really good bantu knot out! 

6. What would you say is the hardest obstacle you had to face as a black photographer? 

I was wary to show my face with my brand. I was worried that It would be about my skin color rather than my work when a client  inquires with me. I only want to be judged off of the work I produce and my character.  I was also concerned about being open on where I stand when it came to things like the Black Lives Matter Movement, I did lose  business relationships when I shared where I stand but I also had some support that I’m forever grateful for. I realize that there will be some vendors who unfollow you or won’t work with you based on what you believe in or look like. It doesn’t bother me as much as it used to. I show those people grace and try my best to love them anyway. 

I hope that you loved learning about another photographer in our industry & keep an eye out each week as we continue to highlight all the talent that fills it.