Cherie Phelps is a local photographer and the owner of C. Phelps Photography in Gretna, NE. She photographs a number of different clients, but her studio specializes in senior photography. With a background in the fashion industry as a professional hair and makeup artist, and as a fashion photographer, Cherie Phelps brings high-end electricity to her images.
How did you get started in the business? – At 17, I landed a job as an assistant at a well-known studio in Madison, WI and fell in love with photography. After graduating, I joined the Air Force and was trained in all aspects of photography.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – My portrait business continues to grow and I am doing more speaking and training on a national level. Because of this, effective time management has definitely been a challenge for me. My biggest motivation to make this a priority is the fact that my kids are older, and my time left raising them is short.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Becoming a national award-winning studio, and being named Nebraska’s Senior Photographer of Year in both 2011 and 2012. Also, being invited to teach and speak on a national level with Seniors Ignite; an exclusive group of photographers whose goal is to teach studios around the country ways to think bigger, improve their craft, and take their studio to the next level.
Tell me a little about your family. – I have three amazing teenagers who are 16, 17, and 18. I love hanging out with them and talking about the events in their teenage lives. For me, this is THE most exciting age, so far, in raising them and although we are all busy I love and cherish the time I am able to spend with them.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – The moment I realized my worth as a woman, both personally and professionally.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – In my spare time, I try to brush up on my Pig Latin while painting and enjoy starting home renovation projects I never intend to finish. I live in a farmhouse built in the late 1800’s and I am a genius at growing incredibly lush broadleaf in lieu of regular-old Kentucky blue-grass and fescue.
What are you the most proud of? – How totally and completely bomb-sauce my kids have turned out, as well as watching them move into their future fearlessly and with intention.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Authenticallypassionate…My word, but you can use it.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. -Phil 4:13 NLT
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – By email at cherie@cphelpsphotography.com or visit www.cphelpsphotography.com.