Snap, Succeed, Repeat: Georen Goodyear’s Unconventional Path to Photographic Mastery

In the world of photography, it takes more than just skill behind the lens to create truly memorable images. Georen Goodyear, the founder of Love Endures Photo, knows this better than anyone. Starting her business in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, Georen turned her lifelong love for photography into a thriving business. What began as a personal passion soon grew into a way for her to help people capture life’s most significant moments with authenticity and heart.

Her journey, however, hasn’t been without its challenges. Like many entrepreneurs, Georen faced uncertainty and setbacks, but her dedication, faith, and belief in her vision kept her moving forward. Love Endures Photo is not just a business for her—it’s a reflection of her life’s story and a testament to the resilience of love, family, and capturing those fleeting moments that matter the most.

In this interview with Women On Topp, Georen shares the story of how she turned her passion into a successful photography business, balancing the demands of motherhood with entrepreneurship, and how her personal experiences continue to shape her work. She opens up about the lessons she’s learned along the way, the challenges she’s overcome, and what the future holds for her as both an artist and a businesswoman.

1. What inspired you to start your photography business, Love Endures Photo, and how did you come up with the name?

Love Endures Photo started in 2020, right after I, Georen Goodyear, graduated from Grand Canyon University with a degree in education. I began teaching third grade but quickly realized it wasn’t my passion. I felt like I had just spent four years preparing for a career that didn’t excite me. I had always loved photography—from the first time I picked up a camera in middle school, capturing simple moments at home, like my siblings playing or the flowers outside. Those small moments sparked a deep love for photography that never left me.

When COVID hit, I was at a crossroads, unsure of what to do next. Friends who had seen my work encouraged me to turn my photography into a business, and that’s how Love Endures Photo was born. I started small, charging just $25 per shoot for people I knew, and built my way up through hard work, gaining experience, better equipment, and more connections. Growing my business meant working full-time while also dedicating my nights and weekends to photography. It was challenging, but my passion drove me forward.

At Love Endures Photo, I offer a wide range of services—everything from weddings, engagements, and couple sessions to portraits, family photos, senior shoots, business headshots, and more. I’m deeply passionate about my work. If you pay me to capture your moments, I’m all in, fully committed to making sure those memories are preserved beautifully.

What sets me apart as a photographer is my relational approach and versatility. I genuinely love getting to know my clients—their stories, how they got to where they are, and why they chose me. This connection helps me capture photos that feel authentically ‘you.’ I’m a blend of trendy and timeless, mixing documentary and editorial styles. I follow trends, like incorporating film vibes in my edits, but I also focus on creating sharp, clear, true-to-color images that will stand the test of time. I capture moments as they happen, with minimal interruption, but I also step in to provide direction when needed, making sure you feel comfortable in front of the camera.

I’m also the type of person who steps up when no one else will. As a photographer, especially at weddings without a planner, I often find myself filling that role. I help plan timelines, troubleshoot when things go awry, and protect the couple’s space, ensuring their day is as calm and perfect as they envisioned. I even provide a wedding planning guide with my packages, offering tips on things couples might not think about, like setting the tone for their morning.

What I’m most proud of in my business is keeping the Lord at the center of everything I do. His wisdom has guided me in running my business and managing my finances. He’s blessed me with incredible connections and opportunities I never imagined, like being featured in a magazine, reaching six figures, and working alongside photographers I look up to. While I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, I know that all the glory belongs to Him. Every accomplishment is a testament to His grace, and I’m incredibly thankful for the gift of capturing people’s memories. Keeping Him at the heart of my brand has been my greatest success.

I named my business Love Endures Photo because it reflects a deeper meaning that resonates with my journey as a photographer and my beliefs about love. Originally, my business was called Pure Joy Photography, inspired by the way people often described me—they said I embodied pure joy. As I began capturing moments like children running towards their parents with big smiles, couples getting engaged, and brides walking down the aisle, the name felt perfect. I was capturing the essence of joy in life’s most precious moments.

However, as my photography journey evolved, I found myself shooting weddings more frequently. I noticed that one particular Bible verse, First Corinthians 13:4-7, was read at almost every ceremony: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’ This passage is full of wisdom about love, whether you’re religious or not, and it speaks to the true nature of enduring love.

What I love most about this verse is the phrase ‘love endures all things.’ While the world often defines love as a fleeting feeling or a rush of chemistry, I believe it’s much more than that. Love is a commitment. It’s about enduring through the highs and lows, showing patience, grace, and selflessness, even when the initial excitement fades. For me, this encapsulates what I see and capture in my work—moments of love that are not just beautiful but resilient and enduring.

This revelation inspired a rebrand to Love Endures Photo, a name that aligns perfectly with my heart and the timeless, enduring moments I capture.

2. How has your challenging upbringing influenced the way you approach your business and your work as a photographer?

My challenging upbringing has profoundly shaped the way I approach both my business and my work as a photographer. Growing up, I faced significant hardships that taught me valuable lessons about resilience, hard work, and determination. Here’s how those experiences influence my professional life:

From a young age, I learned to build my life from scratch, working multiple jobs to support myself and breaking generational cycles of poverty and abuse. This background instilled in me a strong work ethic and an unwavering resilience. I approach my business with the same determination, understanding that success often requires perseverance and hard work.

Having faced significant struggles, I deeply appreciate every client, every project, and every success. This appreciation translates into a high level of dedication and care in my work. I value every opportunity and strive to deliver exceptional results because I understand the effort required to achieve success.
My experiences have given me a profound sense of empathy. I approach my clients with a genuine understanding of the importance of their moments and stories. This empathy helps me connect with people on a deeper level and capture their memories with authenticity and sensitivity.

Growing up with limited resources taught me to be resourceful and creative. I apply this same resourcefulness to my business, finding innovative solutions to challenges and making the most of what I have. Whether it’s maximizing my equipment or finding unique ways to market my services, I leverage my experiences to navigate the competitive landscape effectively.

My upbringing made me unafraid of hard work and taking risks. This mindset drives me to continually push the boundaries of my craft and seek new opportunities for growth. I am committed to putting in the effort needed to achieve excellence and support my clients in the best possible way.

Overall, my challenging upbringing has shaped me into a dedicated, empathetic, and resilient photographer. It has influenced how I approach my business, ensuring that I bring a high level of commitment and understanding to everything I do.

3. What strategies have you found most effective in growing your business in such a competitive industry?

Growing my business in the highly competitive photography industry has been a journey that required a blend of strategic thinking, constant learning, and staying true to my values. One of the most effective strategies I’ve found is offering a unique and highly personalized client experience.

I’m a relational photographer, and I genuinely invest in getting to know my clients—their stories, how they got here, and what they’re looking for in their photos. This approach allows me to capture their moments in a way that feels authentic and true to who they are, which keeps clients coming back and referring me to others.

Another key strategy has been focusing on continuous improvement and innovation. The photography world is constantly evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging all the time. I make it a priority to stay on top of these changes by learning new skills, mastering different editing software, and adapting my style when needed. I balance trendy and timeless photography, which allows me to appeal to a broader audience while maintaining a classic, enduring brand. Whether it’s experimenting with film photography or embracing new editing styles, I’m always looking for ways to refine my craft and stand out.

Building resilience has also been crucial. I’ve learned to navigate slow seasons by diversifying my offerings and planning ahead. When weddings slow down, I shift focus to studio sessions, update my portfolio, or invest time in marketing. I use the quieter moments to work on the business rather than in it, ensuring that I’m ready for the busy season when it comes.

I’ve also embraced competition by turning it into collaboration. Rather than seeing other photographers as rivals, I’ve built connections and learned from others in the industry. Collaborating with other creatives, attending workshops, and even taking on second-shooting gigs have all helped me grow my skills and expand my network.

Finally, I’ve remained committed to organic growth and financial discipline. By not taking on debt and only spending what I have, I’ve been able to reinvest wisely in my business and grow at a sustainable pace. This disciplined approach has allowed me to make thoughtful upgrades to my gear and offerings, which in turn, has increased the quality of my work and the value I bring to my clients.

In such a saturated market, these strategies—personalization, continuous learning, resilience, collaboration, and financial discipline—have set me apart and fueled the steady growth of my business. For anyone starting in a competitive field, my advice is to focus on what makes you unique, stay adaptable, and never stop learning. Success isn’t about doing what everyone else is doing—it’s about finding what works for you and doing it with passion and purpose.

4. How do you maintain a balance between your creative vision as a photographer and the practical aspects of running a successful business?

Maintaining a balance between my creative vision and the practical side of running a business is definitely a challenge, but it’s something I’ve learned to navigate through experience and intentionality. As a photographer, my passion lies in capturing authentic, timeless moments that reflect my clients’ true selves, and I never want the business side to overshadow that. However, I also understand that creativity alone isn’t enough to sustain a successful business—it takes organization, strategy, and discipline.

One way I maintain this balance is by setting clear boundaries between my creative work and business operations. I dedicate specific times to the creative process—whether it’s shooting, editing, or brainstorming new ideas—so that I can fully immerse myself without being distracted by administrative tasks. Conversely, I carve out time for the business side, focusing on things like marketing, client communication, accounting, and planning. This structured approach helps me stay focused and ensures that neither side gets neglected.

I also stay true to my creative vision by continuously finding ways to innovate and push my artistic boundaries. I invest in learning new techniques, exploring different styles, and taking on personal projects that keep my passion alive. These creative pursuits feed back into my client work, keeping it fresh and exciting. At the same time, I approach the business side with the same mindset of continuous improvement—finding new ways to streamline processes, enhance the client experience, and build my brand.

Being financially disciplined also plays a big role. By managing my expenses wisely and reinvesting in my business, I’ve been able to purchase the gear and resources I need to bring my creative ideas to life without compromising my financial stability. This gives me the freedom to focus on what I love—creating beautiful images—without the constant stress of financial pressure.

Most importantly, I make a conscious effort to stay connected with why I started in the first place. My passion for photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing memories and telling stories that endure. By keeping this purpose at the center of everything I do, I’m able to align my creative vision with the practical aspects of running a business. It’s a constant balancing act, but one that’s incredibly rewarding.

For me, it’s all about being intentional—honoring my artistry while treating my business with the respect it deserves. By doing this, I can create work that I’m proud of, serve my clients well, and continue to grow a business that reflects my values.

5. What role has networking played in your business journey, and how have you built connections in the photography and business communities?

Networking has played a pivotal role in my business journey and has been one of the most valuable strategies for growth, learning, and finding new opportunities. In the early stages of my photography career, networking was how I got my foot in the door. Many of my initial bookings came from friends, family, and word-of-mouth referrals, which taught me the importance of building and nurturing relationships. From there, I realized that connecting with others—whether they were clients, fellow photographers, or other professionals—was essential for my business to thrive.

I’ve made it a priority to actively engage with the photography community, both online and in person. Social media has been an incredible tool for this. Platforms like Instagram have allowed me to showcase my work, connect with other creatives, and engage with potential clients. I frequently interact with other photographers, commenting on their work, sharing advice, and even collaborating on projects. These connections have led to opportunities like second-shooting gigs, referrals, and creative collaborations that have expanded my skills and my network.

I also invest time in attending workshops, photography meetups, and local business events. These spaces provide a chance to meet other professionals, learn from their experiences, and exchange ideas. I’ve found that the photography community is incredibly supportive, and I’ve been fortunate to connect with mentors and peers who have offered guidance, shared their knowledge, and encouraged me along the way.

Collaboration over competition is a mindset that has significantly shaped my networking approach. Rather than seeing other photographers as competitors, I view them as allies. I’ve had the chance to second-shoot at weddings, assist on projects, and even share leads with other photographers when I’m unavailable. These experiences not only build strong relationships but also create a sense of community where we uplift each other.

Networking has also extended beyond the photography world. I’ve connected with wedding planners, florists, makeup artists, and other vendors in the wedding industry. These relationships have been invaluable, often leading to referrals and the chance to work together on styled shoots that showcase our collective talents. By building a network of trusted vendors, I’ve been able to offer my clients a more comprehensive and connected service, enhancing their overall experience.

The key to building connections has been genuine engagement and showing up as my authentic self. I’m not just trying to “network” for business; I’m genuinely interested in people, their stories, and what I can learn from them. That authenticity has allowed me to form meaningful connections that go beyond business transactions.

Ultimately, networking has been about building a community of support and collaboration, which has fueled my growth both as a photographer and as a business owner. If you’re just starting out, my advice would be to put yourself out there, be willing to learn from others, and invest in the relationships that resonate with you. You never know where a connection might lead or how it might shape your journey.

6. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women who are facing similar challenges that you’ve overcome?

To aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women who might be navigating the complexities of building a business, I’d offer this advice:

Sometimes, working a 9-to-5 job is necessary to sustain yourself while you pursue your dreams. It’s not something many people talk about or are comfortable admitting, but it’s a reality for many. Don’t feel pressured to quit your day job just to chase your passion. You can do both. Balancing a regular job while building your business is challenging, but it’s often a crucial step toward achieving your goals.

The key is to remain dedicated and persistent. Your hard work and commitment will eventually bear fruit. Understand that success doesn’t come overnight, and everyone’s journey looks different. Be patient with yourself and your progress. The sacrifices you make now—whether it’s late nights or juggling multiple responsibilities—are laying the groundwork for your future success.

It’s important to stay focused and believe in your vision. Embrace the process, keep working diligently, and trust that your efforts will lead to growth and achievement. Remember, your path may not be straightforward, but every step you take, no matter how small, is bringing you closer to realizing your dreams. Keep pushing forward, and don’t give up. Your success is within reach, and your dedication will make it a reality.

7. What was the most difficult personal challenge you had to overcome, and how did it shape the person you are today?

The most difficult personal challenge I faced was building my life from the ground up, starting from a very young age. When I was just 12 years old, I took on the responsibility of taking care of myself. I bought my own food, school supplies, and clothes, often by doing odd jobs like cleaning houses or pulling weeds for neighbors.

This early independence was both a necessity and a profound challenge. I learned to scrape together every cent to survive and to value hard work in a way that most people might not fully understand. I experienced periods of extreme hardship, including living in my car and struggling to make ends meet, yet I managed to put myself through college and graduate.

Breaking generational curses of poverty and abuse in my family was another significant challenge. I was the first in my family to graduate high school and college, and I was the first to cultivate a relationship with God. Each of these milestones represented not just personal victories but also a departure from the cycle of hardship that had defined my family’s past.

This journey has profoundly shaped who I am today. It instilled in me a deep appreciation for every accomplishment, every client, and every moment I capture in my work. I’ve never been afraid of hard work or taking risks because I’ve had to do both throughout my life. This background makes me value the fruits of my labor even more and approach my business with a unique perspective.

I often say that you’ll never understand the violence it took to become this gentle of a person. My experiences have taught me resilience, gratitude, and an unyielding work ethic. These lessons drive me to fully appreciate and cherish every aspect of my business and personal life, knowing the effort and sacrifice that went into reaching this point.

8. What are some of the core values that guide your decisions and actions in both your personal life and your business?

The core values that guide my decisions and actions in both my personal life and my business are deeply rooted in my faith and personal principles.

First and foremost, my faith in God is the foundation of everything I do. It provides me with a sense of purpose and guides me in maintaining integrity and honesty in all my interactions. This commitment to integrity ensures that I uphold transparency and trust in my business relationships and decision-making.
Hard work and perseverance are also central to my approach. I believe that success comes from dedication and resilience. Balancing a 9-to-5 job while pursuing my dreams has taught me the value of patience and diligent effort. This mindset helps me stay focused and committed, knowing that hard work will eventually lead to achieving my goals.

Continuous growth is another key value for me. I am dedicated to learning and improving, whether it’s refining my photography skills, keeping up with industry trends, or adapting to changes. This commitment to growth ensures that I remain relevant and capable in my field, always striving to provide the best for my clients.

Authenticity and building genuine relationships are important aspects of my work. I value connecting with others on a personal level, which allows me to capture their true essence and provide a meaningful experience. This authenticity fosters trust and ensures that my work truly reflects my clients’ personalities and stories.

Maintaining balance and practicing self-care are crucial for sustaining my energy and focus. I believe that taking time for rest and self-care is essential for approaching my work with a clear mind and renewed passion. This balance helps me stay motivated and prevents burnout.

Finally, service and gratitude guide my interactions with clients and my community. I am thankful for the opportunities I’ve been given and strive to give back by offering exceptional service and support. This sense of service extends to how I collaborate with others and contribute to the community.

These values not only guide my personal and professional life but also ensure that my actions align with my beliefs and contribute to a fulfilling and successful career.

9. How do you unwind and find balance in your life outside of photography and business?

Finding balance outside of photography and business is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and sustaining my creativity. When I don’t have a camera in my hand, this is typically what I do to unwind and maintain balance:

Taking rest days are a fundamental part of my routine. I set aside specific days to rest, disconnect from work, and focus on doing absolutely nothing all day. This can be hard because most of the time I want to get up and clean my house or something BUT this dedicated time for rest helps me recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Spending time with family and friends is essential for me. Whether it’s sharing meals, having meaningful conversations, or just enjoying each other’s company, these moments offer a sense of connection and support that helps me unwind.

I love to go to the gym. Engaging in regular exercise, such as running, lifting weights, or walking, is an important way for me to manage stress and stay energized. Physical activity helps me clear my mind and maintain a healthy balance.

You can also, without a doubt, find me at church. My faith plays a significant role in my life. I find peace and life in going to church, worshiping, spending time with other believers, and serving.
By integrating these practices into my routine, I can effectively unwind and maintain balance, ensuring that I approach my work with clarity and renewed enthusiasm.

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As Georen Goodyear continues to captivate audiences with her stunning visual storytelling, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that success doesn’t always come through traditional paths, but often through resilience, passion, and a willingness to embrace new challenges. From the initial pause of the pandemic to the thriving career she’s built today, Georen’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and an unwavering belief in her craft. With a heart as warm as her vibrant images, she’s proof that following your passion can lead to a life of fulfillment and impact. Keep an eye on this rising star—there’s no telling where her lens will take her next.