Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsey Hoelz.
Hi Chelsey , we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When my son started playing sports, I quickly realized just how expensive photography packages could be. As a single mom with a severe case of the “how hard could it be?” mentality, I decided I would learn to take my own photos so I could get the shots I really wanted without having to pay someone else to do it. I borrowed my sister’s camera, watched a few YoutTube videos and got to work.
What started as a little side quest turned into me photographing not only my son, but my friends’ children as well. Over the next two years, people began asking me to photograph more than just sports. I started capturing events, milestones, and all kinds of special moments.
During that time, I toyed with the idea of turning my new found hobby into an actual business by making it “official,” but honestly, I was scared to commit. Then one day, while sitting at my 9-to-5 job, I had this overwhelming feeling that I should just go for it. I remember thinking, “Just pull the trigger. What do we have to lose?” So I did.
I filed with the State of New Jersey and officially started One Fifteen Photography on November 20, 2023. This entire journey started with my son so it only felt right that he would be part of the name, too.
1/15/15 is the day I became a mom, so One Fifteen Photography just made sense. That being said, I never knew my little side quest would turn into what it has over the last three years. I’m still in awe most days.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think with any business, there are always going to be ups and downs, challenges, and learning curves. One thing I really pride myself on is maintaining a “how hard can it be?” attitude. Throughout this entire journey, my mindset has been if it goes well, great. If it doesn’t, it’s a learning opportunity and, at the very least, a good story.
One of the things I love most about photography is that it’s art. There really is no absolute right or wrong. If people love your work, they’ll choose to work with you. If they don’t, they’ll find someone whose style better reflects what they’re looking for. And that’s okay.
At the end of the day, there will always be moments worth capturing and stories worth telling. Photography gives me the opportunity to keep learning, keep creating, and keep finding new ways to tell those stories.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I photograph everything from sports and portraits to events and intimate weddings. Right now, I’m probably best known for my work with Rancocas Valley Regional High School’s Varsity Football Team. I’ve had the privilege of photographing their football seasons exclusively for the past three years, and I’ve genuinely had the time of my life doing it.
What I’m most proud of and what I believe truly sets me apart is the relationships I build with my clients. When I started my business, I knew I didn’t just want to be someone people hired for a single photoshoot. I wanted to be the photographer they could call throughout their lives. The person who grows with them and captures all of the moments that are worth remembering. If you asked my clients whether I make them feel like family by the end of their first session, I think the overwhelming response would be, “Without a doubt.” I genuinely go out of my way to make sure my clients feel comfortable, valued, and happy with their experience. To me, that’s what they deserve and it’s the kind of photographer I want to be.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking, in my opinion, is easiest when it comes from a genuine place. I try to focus less on what I can get from a connection and more on how I can be of service to others. That mindset allows you to build relationships rooted in trust and mutual respect. When people know they can count on you, they naturally want to work with you, support you, and pour back into you.
In my experience, giving more than you take is one of the best ways to build meaningful connections. What you put out into the world has a way of coming back to you tenfold. Always be intentional about the energy you bring into your relationships and make sure it reflects the kind of energy you hope to receive in return.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.onefifteenphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onefifteenphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onefifteenphotography
- Other: https://book.usesession.com/i/2eBFdtfKEm
