Meet Nicole Ritchie | Photographer

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

Hi Nicole, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
Not giving up on my dreams, and consistently seeking growth in the trade of photography. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, so keeping in mind that I was on my own road and I was only competing with myself was a good reminder in order for me to succeed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a photographer of families, newborns, expecting mamas, and weddings. I love to make people feel comfortable, not just in front of a camera, but in general. Life is hard, and there are so many environments that could make us all feel very out of place. If I can help someone to not feel out of place, I want to do that. I love that I can provide an experience for my clients, not just an obligatory photo session. Making my clients feel comfortable in my presence is one way to make their session experience with me exceptional. I always hope to provide a welcome greeting to all who come my way, whether I know them, I’ve worked with them before, or if they’re complete stranger.

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.
I’m local to Parkersburg, WV and I grew up in Coolville, OH. If a friend were to come visit the area and I wanted to show them the best time ever, I would take them to Canaan Valley, WV. I love Canaan, and it is dear to my heart especially because this is where my husband and I said our “I do’s”. There’s more trails to hike than you can count, each with their own unique epic views. You can find waterfalls, huge valleys, caves and plenty of rocks to hike up where you can see for miles. There’s an abundance of additional activities if visiting in winter months to include skiing, sledding, tubing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. In any season, my favorite spot to visit in the valley is Dolly Sods. Atop the mountain are trees shaped by the wind and gorgeous views of the wild & wonderful state. And I would stay at Canaan valley resort- just a wake up and a walk downstairs for breakfast with some large window picturesque views of the country from your table.

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 wouldn’t be successful if it weren’t for clients who trusted me to document their intimate moments with families. Sometimes I am documenting one of the most important days of their lives, and it’s amazing to have the trust from a client that I will deliver these images which they will cherish forever.

Website: www.nicoleritchiephoto.com

Instagram: @nicoleritchiephoto

Facebook: Nicole Ritchie Photography