Small Business Q&A: Meet Debbie Callahan Ellis

Two and a half years ago, Debbie Callahan Ellis opened her dream business in Bedford. In the time since, Debbie Ellis Photography has flourished behind the owner's creative ideas and personal touch.

In fact, Ellis' business continuously impressed in our small business and a true indication of her loyal following.

This week, we provided Ellis with the following list of questions specific to her business, it's growth and its future in Bedford:

Bedford Patch: How long have you owned your business in Bedford?

Ellis: I officially opened my business in 2010, approximately 2.5 years.

Bedford Patch: What makes your photography stand out above others?

Ellis: I focus on emotion between people, the connection you can feel when you look at an image.  I keep things simple and clean without a lot of photoshop work.  Also, I am a work in progress myself as I invest in my continuing education with local, regional and national groups like NHPPA, PPANE and PPA. I believe it's so important for photographers to continue learning new ideas and techniques from different teachers.  

Bedford Patch: What's the most rewarding part of your job?

Ellis: The absolute joy I see in people, many moved to tears, when I share their images with them in my office.  I am so grateful to work with so many amazing people and families.  To be trusted with such important photographs like a newborn baby or a high school senior is just so gratifying. 
 

Bedford Patch: What's the most interesting photo you've ever taken?

Ellis: This question has taken me a while to answer. I am envisioning all the many faces I have worked with the past few years.  Each are unique and interesting. One of my favorite subjects to photograph are dancers.  To capture them at just the perfect moment is like a "high five moment" I have with myself.  They invest so much time and energy into their love for dance and catching the perfect instant is amazing. Keep in mind I am doing so from the back of a dark, crowded, theater!

Bedford Patch: What's was the most difficult project you've undertaken?

Ellis: I did some commercial work with a company in Manchester.  I tend to get silly with my clients (especially children) to get them to relax and have fun. This proved to be a little bit of a challenge with stoic adult German men.  I thought about bringing my squeaky rubber chicken on the second day of shooting, but refrained.  

Bedford Patch: What types of photos are requested of you the most?

Ellis: Mostly, moms contact me to photograph their children.  I consider it a kind of play date where we explore local parks or even their own back yards and go on "adventures" together. Like it or not, I do get the moms and/or dad to get in a few photos as well. Most moms even hang back so as to let me do my thing with their children.  It works for them, too, as they get a little break.  

Bedford Patch: What's your favorite Bedford small business, beside your own?

Ellis: I love The Inside Scoop and Cupcakes 101.  Both are women owned small businesses that are an inspiration to me.  

Bedford Patch: Is there anything I have not asked that you'd like Bedford residents to know?

Ellis: I am looking to do some "a day in the life" sessions this winter.  What I mean by this is I come to your home and spend time with your family, taking pictures of your children doing what they most love around their home.  This might include jumping on the bed and kids wrestling, but I want to capture your family in their own relaxed environment without lots of posing.  We can even go outside a make a snowman.  Shooting time would be about two hours. 

Find out more about Debbie Ellis Photography on her website or Facebook page.

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