Meet Monique Cabelka | Wedding Photographer & Videographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Monique Cabelka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monique, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When my husband and I got married, we had a shared vision for our lifestyle. We wanted me to be a stay-at-home mom, nurturing our family, and being there for my spouse. Yet, like many millennials, we realized that we needed both of our incomes to support the lifestyle we desired.

At the time, I was working in a full-time job in my chosen career path, but it wasn’t fulfilling, and I was often stressed. I knew that I wanted something different, something that would allow me to earn income while keeping my working hours low so I could fulfill my dream of being a stay-at-home mom.

My husband encouraged me to find a fulfilling hobby to occupy my time as a stay-at-home mom, so he bought me my first camera. As I started practicing photography, I discovered a deep passion for it. Capturing the essence and romance of couples through photography became more than a hobby; it became a calling. I realized that I could turn this passion into a business, allowing me to create art, share it with others, and still have the flexibility to be there for my kids and husband.

In essence, the thought process behind starting my own business was rooted in our desire for a specific lifestyle, the need to maintain our income, and my discovery of a profound passion for photography that I could turn into a fulfilling career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a professional photographer, I believe there’s a significant difference between smartphone snapshots and the artistry of professional photography. While anyone can take pictures, my focus goes beyond just capturing moments; it’s about creating a memorable experience for my clients. My goal is to make them feel comfortable, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the emotions of the moment and cherish the memories they’ve worked so hard to create.

Wedding days can be chaotic, and couples often feel rushed. My role is not only to capture candid moments but also to encourage couples to pause and savor the excitement and romance of their special day. I pay attention to the intricate details—the candlelit dinners, exquisite tablescapes, and breathtaking florals—and transform them into art. My journey to becoming a professional photographer wasn’t easy. It involved learning from mentors, collaborating with fellow photographers, and, most importantly, learning from my mistakes. I constantly strive to improve my workflow, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience for my clients.

What sets my brand apart is my focus on romance. While many photographers specialize in candid shots, I aim to capture the essence of love and romance between couples. My photographs tell a story, like scenes from a movie or pages from a romance novel. I bring an artistry to wedding photography by intentionally building the story, characters, and plot of each wedding. In essence, my business is for the hopeless romantic who wants their love story to be told through the lens of artistry.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I would make sure they have an unforgettable time exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Arizona. Here’s a little itinerary:

Sedona
We’d kick off our trip with a visit to Sedona, known for its breathtaking red rock formations. We’d start with a scenic hike to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the area.
For dinner, we’d indulge in some Southwestern cuisine at one of the local restaurants.

Horseshoe Bend and the Grand Canyon
Our adventure would continue at the Grand Canyon, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on the planet. We’d explore various viewpoints, take a hike along the rim, and perhaps even plan a thrilling helicopter tour for a unique perspective. Next, we’d head to Horseshoe Bend, where we’d take in the iconic view of the Colorado River meandering through the picturesque canyon.

We’d find a cozy spot for a picnic and enjoy the natural wonders of the area.

Downtown Phoenix
We’d return to civilization and spend a day exploring the heart of Phoenix. We’d visit art galleries, museums, and take a stroll through the vibrant downtown area. We’d visit any attractions we missed earlier in the week, perhaps taking a leisurely stroll in one of the scenic parks.

We’d also make sure to check out some of the local coffee shops and savor the best brews in the area.

Scottsdale
Our next stop would be Scottsdale, known for its upscale shopping, art scene, and luxurious resorts. We’d spend the day exploring the beautiful desert gardens and maybe even indulge in a spa day. In the evening, we’d dine at one of Scottsdale’s renowned restaurants and enjoy the city’s nightlife.

Flagstaff (in the winter)
We’d explore downtown Flagstaff, known for its charming shops, cozy cafes, and historic architecture. We might even visit the Lowell Observatory for some stargazing, weather permitting. For dinner, we’d warm up with some hearty comfort food at one of Flagstaff’s inviting restaurants, where we could savor dishes like hot soup or a classic winter stew. We’d end our day by cozying up near a fireplace at our chosen accommodation, reflecting on the beauty of Flagstaff in the winter and the incredible experiences we’ve had throughout our trip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my husband, Michael, who has played an invaluable role in my journey. His unwavering support and encouragement have been the bedrock of my success. Michael has never hesitated to offer a listening ear or a kind word, providing me with the emotional support I’ve needed every step of the way. He’s been incredibly understanding and accommodating, never complaining when I’ve had to spend evenings away on photoshoots or when we’ve tackled wedding photography and videography together, working as a team.

I’d also like to extend my appreciation to my parents. They’ve been an incredible source of support, helping us look after our children when we’ve had overlapping commitments, like weddings. Their willingness to step in and provide that extra pair of hands has been invaluable.

In addition to my husband and parents, I’m grateful for the unwavering encouragement and understanding of close friends who’ve been with me on this journey. Their belief in my passion and talent has fueled my determination to make my photography business a success. I’m truly fortunate to have such an incredible support system, and I couldn’t have done it without them.

Website: www.digitalcreative.media

Instagram: www.instagram.com/digitalcreative.media

Facebook: www.facebook.com/digitalcreativephotovideo

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@digitalcreativefilms

Image Credits
Images are my own = Digital Creative Media