Today we’d like to introduce you to Charissa H. Yong.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
After working for 11 years in the corporate world as a software test engineer and doing a three-hour daily commute as a new mom, I was burned out. While I loved my job and the people I worked with, I knew I had to quit for my health and wanted to pursue something creative and meaningful.
In 2018, I started my business, Charissa H. Yong Photography, LLC. In the beginning, I focused primarily on family photography. As I began networking and building my brand, I realized that people do business with people they know, like, and trust. That led me to dive deep into the world of personal branding.
This type of strategic, storytelling photography helps individuals and businesses stand out by showcasing their personality and authenticity, strengthening their messaging, and evoking emotion to connect with the right audience.
I believe that everyone has a story to tell—whether it’s to develop their professional career or brand, or to document special moments and milestones in their life.
It has been a wonderful journey of growth, personally and professionally, because this business is about so much more than taking beautiful photos. It’s about guiding and coaching my clients to feel confident and connecting with a group of amazing business owners so we can learn from and support each other.
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?
Starting a business is never smooth. There are always challenges and moments of self-doubt.
I struggled deeply with self-doubt when I first started my photography business. “Who am I to start a business?” “You don’t have a photography or business degree.” “You don’t even know how to use Photoshop!” I had no idea what I was doing and often felt like an imposter.
Thankfully, my best friend introduced me to her friend Jane, a professional wedding photographer. Jane was incredibly kind and took the time to answer my questions, give me feedback on my editing, and teach me how to use external lighting. She encouraged me to keep practicing photography and editing, reminding me that improvement would come with time. I’m so grateful for Jane, as well as the support and encouragement from my family and friends.
What also helped me was researching and taking courses on personal branding. I realized that being myself is the best thing I can do. People can tell when you’re faking it or being inauthentic—and that’s not how I want to show up. For most of my life, I tried to change myself to fit in, and it was exhausting.
Once I let that go and started showing up as myself, I felt free—free to focus on what I do best, serve my clients, and cultivate meaningful relationships. That shift helped me feel more confident and recognize that I have so much more to offer my clients and my community.
Another struggle was feeling alone in my business journey. I thought I had to do everything myself, but that simply isn’t true. I’ve been fortunate to meet so many incredible business owners whose services have helped me grow, care for myself, and run my business more effectively. I also learned that finding the right business community and networking groups can make a huge difference in growth and in getting the support you need.
Being a photographer and starting a business is not easy. But when I look back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a New Jersey headshot and personal branding photographer and the founder of Charissa H. Yong Photography, LLC, based in Bergen County. I serve clients throughout North and Central New Jersey, as well as Rockland County, NY.
I’m passionate about creating authentic, storytelling images for individuals and service-based business owners so they can confidently stand out online and connect with the right audience.
I believe my personal brand and genuine relationships are what set me apart. Photography is deeply personal and can feel vulnerable, which is why I highly recommend scheduling a discovery call or consultation before booking a session. When you feel comfortable and connected with your photographer, it shows—you’ll look more relaxed, natural, and authentic in your photos.
I’m proud to have built my brand with a focus on collaboration and community rather than competition. I’ve partnered with many incredible businesses and creatives, including videographers, marketing agencies, makeup and hair artists, and personal stylists, to create a seamless and stress-free experience for my clients.
My services include headshot sessions for individuals and small to mid-size businesses, personal branding photography for service-based businesses, and event photography, including birthday milestones, baby showers, religious ceremonies, and corporate or business events.
What were you like growing up?
I was the only child and the oldest in the family, so I often helped take care of my younger cousins and brother and pitched in whenever I could. Because of that, I was very independent and sometimes too stubborn to ask for help. Now, I know asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a form of self-care.
Photography has always been an important part of my life. When I was young, my mother would take hundreds of photos and have them printed. I spent hours flipping through them again and again. It brought me so much joy, and even at a young age, I understood how meaningful those photographs were to me.
I was also passionate about Taekwondo—I loved it! I earned a semi–black belt, but financially, we couldn’t afford the black belt exam while I was in college. Still, it was a wonderful experience that taught me discipline, resilience, and strength.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charissahyongphotography.com/
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/charissahyongphotography
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charissahyongphotography/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charissahyong
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGbAT4l3wSpdcAbkcG3OYLw
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/charissahyongphotography/
Image Credit:
Clara Wang Photography
Jenny King Photography
