Meet Victoria Petersen | Editorial Wedding Photographer

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

Hi Victoria, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
For me, finding myself where I am now was the result of a lot of small decisions. Deciding to step away from my full time job, investing in education, saying yes to certain opportunities and so much more. But the one thing that I keep coming back to and that will always guide my business is to be “people over photos”. It will always be my goal to value the people and the experience that people have with me over any incredible photo I could capture. I think this has led to deep, authentic relationships with my clients and has propelled me forward as not just a vendor–but a friend.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I love my job and I’ve worked so hard to be where I am. But what I’m most proud of is how it enables me to live the lifestyle I want to live and be the person I want to be. I’ve built a team and a workflow that allow me to show up for my clients, love them well and get wildly creative–and then be home with my family and my community during the week. I get to see the world and meet the most incredible people and still be rooted in community too. Working for yourself is difficult, and striking the balance between work and play is difficult. For me it took time and intentionality, but goodness is it worth it. To be alive and whole and creative and free—and then to have a career centered around that is just incredible. I’m not about the hustle culture. It’s so toxic to me actually. I’d rather be healthy and at peace, and I’d trade that for the few opportunities that the hustle culture might offer me. I’m speaking as a recovering hustle-aholic 🙂 It’s just not worth it to me. My lovely friend Allie once said “your work is lovely, but your life is important”—woof did that speak to my soul. My family, my closest people, my faith—those things deserve my best. The funny thing is, it’s when I’m healthy outside of work that I produce the best photos, the most honest and fresh art.

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 live in Lincoln, Nebraska–the absolute best thing is the people. We’d spend time drinking wine on the porch, skating on the mini ramp in our backyard and walking to the botanical garden down the street. We’d grab pizza and a beer at Yia Yias, a local joint and swing by a local creative market. Our creative scene here is so collaborative and supportive. Maybe we’d see a show at Pinewood bowl or the Bourbon. Whatever it is, we’d linger long enough to watch the sunset. We’d chase fireflies and wakeboard on glass at the lake. Oh, and we’d probably get some cardamom pound cake from Goldenrod!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, all the joys and success I’ve had with my business are due to three people who have invested in me and cheered me on. First and foremost, my wildly talented and kind husband Josh. He was the one who pushed me to invest my time and our resources in photography. He saw the way I delighted in the art of it, the way I was determined to learn and the sacrifices I was willing to make for it. He surprised me with a new laptop, payed my admittance to a photography workshop and a wrote me a note about how much he believed in me. He has been my number one advocate and has made countless sacrifices for me to chase this dream. Not to mention, our love has been such an inspiration in my work too!

Secondly, my best friend Brooke Confer who took me under her wing and taught me everything I know. I would’ve given up a million times in those early days if I didn’t have her to answer all my questions. She brings joy and adventure into my life and I love her dearly.

Lastly, Manda from Mae + Co. A few years ago, she spoke words that I needed to hear and has continued to inspire and love me since. She is hands down the best wedding planner in the country–the fact that she took a chance on me and has invested in me is baffling. She is the heartbeat of this industry—she will never know the impact she has made on so many.

Website: victoriapetersen.co

Instagram: victoriapetersen__

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoriapetersenphotography