Meet Elaina Richards | Beauty in Time Photography

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

Hi Elaina, what inspires you?
Throughout the different seasons of my own life, I have often found myself questioning my own self worth. When I started Beauty in Time Photography, one of my greatest aspirations was to empower my clients to love themselves in each and every season of life. My goal is to apply this concept to whomever finds themselves in front of my camera lens. From boudoir and birth photography, helping women embolden themselves; to couples, helping to show the world what makes them wonderful and unique, and everything in-between, I find joy and fulfillment when my clients not only love the pictures I take but are able to find more things to love about themselves in the process.

In my personal life, I draw inspiration from my family and close friends. My friends and family have always been supportive of me and my dreams. It has been challenging to start a in the midst of a pandemic, and there were some days I wanted to give up, but my friends and and family have always kept me motivated. Their example of support, love, and encouragement inspires me to love others well.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
2020 was a whirlwind of a year for many of us and I was no exception. In the span of eight months last year, I got engaged, married, and started a business. All great things to do in a pandemic, right? Prior to starting Beauty in Time Photography, I was a store manager at a local coffee chain. I had been in the coffee business for around six years at that point and my husband was well settled into his career. One day, my husband and I were talking about what the future holds for us and my husband asked me a candid question, “What are you passionate about?” I answered hesitantly, “I have always loved photography, but…” My husband interrupted me (it’s OK, I forgave him). “Then do it!” he told me adding, “You stood by me while I pursued my career and now it’s your turn.” It began with a name, Beauty in Time Photography. My company is faith based and the name comes from Ecclesiastes 3:11 “For he has made EVERYTHING beautiful in its time.” I truly believe that every single one of us has been beautifully and wonderfully made by God. I hoped to capture moments in time that show-off someone’s God given beauty. So, I had my name and my namesake, now all I had to do was figure out how to start and run a photography business. Easy, right? No. Throughout the journey, I have learned how to build a website, write contracts, marketing skills and strategies and so much more. I learned simple yet important helpful tips, like “Don’t forget extra SD cards,” and “Make sure both batteries are charged.” Yes, I learned those the hard way. I have made my fair share of mistakes, but have learned how to roll with the punches and view those moments as opportunities to grow and learn. Starting this business has been one of the greatest adventures of my life. I have had busy seasons and not so busy ones as well, but I am so thankful that I have the opportunity each day to make myself and my business better.

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.
My husband and I both love to host and when those we love come to visit, we like to start off with a home cooked meal. My husband is a wiz in the kitchen and I even had it in my vows, “If he cooked, I’d do the dishes.” I will say this is a tall order because he is one messy cook, so on occasion we trade. We also love table games and yard games, so we would play something after dinner and catch up on how life is going. My husband and I are lovers of all things outdoors so a good portion of the week would be spent hiking or walking around places like Estes Park, soaking in the hot springs of Steamboat Springs, or seeing fall colors in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. As avid music lovers, we would take our guests to concerts at Red Rocks or any other venue. I have also been known to enjoy shopping at local boutiques and antique stores. I am a lover of all things food, so whether its cooking at home or going out to one of my favorite restaurants in the area, we would find plenty of ways to eat and be merry. Lodging somewhat depends on the season. Guests are always welcome at our house, but if the weather is nice, you can just as easily find us camping on the shore of a lake or up in the mountains when we have the time.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without the continued support of my husband and our families, Beauty in Time Photography may very well still be a dream. Thank you to all those who have made my dreams a reality by encouraging me to pursue my passion and helping me to realize my potential.

Website: https://www.beautyintimephotography.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beauty_in_time_photography

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