Introducing…
Surprise! I am so excited to share my new business name: Laura Brooks Photography!
My parents are small business owners, so growing up I knew starting a business was likely in my future. Two weeks after turning 30, I decided to make it happen. The last 8 months has taught me so much about myself, my relationships, and my relationship with work. This name change was earlier than expected, but is symbolic of some deeper reflections.
Laura, a fat white femme, walks in a forest with their dog away from the camera. Laura is wearing a purple vest and all black clothing. The dog is a freakishly tall floofy grey and white pup.
I worked in social services for (too) many years. While I loved it, I over-identified and felt enmeshed with my job. With all its ups and downs, working in social services taught me to lead with relationships, always. The people I worked with was the best part, no question.
When I started this business, I did not know much about business structures, marketing, or really any of the important things. I’ve felt clueless more times in the last 8 months than I care to count. The most difficult part has been social media, which feels incredibly vulnerable to be perceived on the internet. But thanks to my sweet partner, my incredible community, and the help of mentors and business partners, it has felt far more fun, joy-filled, and exhilarating than anything else.
I love having this photography business because of my community.
Laura is smiling at the camera with a silver blazer across their shoulders. They have on purple eyeshadow and their curly hair is blowing in the wind.
My original name “Brooks Visuals” was an sloppy Google search for available domains late on a Friday evening several glasses of wine deep. It sounded good enough at the time. Imperfect action is better than none, right? In 2024, I am throwing it back to social services days to intentionally invest in and lead with relationships in my business. This starts with showing up as I am, taking up space with the full government name: Laura Brooks.
The last 8 months has felt so deeply healing for me in many ways. I have met some spectacular friends and am part of a community that feels delightful. I had dreams of throwing a fun event to celebrate my rebrand, but Google Workspace had different plans.
Thank you for being here. Thank you for supporting me. Thank you for engaging in social media! And thank you for taking up space in your own ways.
If we don’t know each other yet, hi! I’m Laura Brooks and I’d love to get to know you.
