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I am so blessed and lucky to have been able to be featured in Voyage Raleigh for the second year in a row! If you'd like to read it, click HERE or read below:

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Roberts.

Hi Heather, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My journey in the world of photography and the arts has been both fulfilling and dynamic. I’m Heather, the proud owner of Swan Creek Studios, residing in the charming town of Kernersville, North Carolina. Beyond the lens, I’m a devoted wife and mother to a spirited 5-year-old, finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. 

My artistic roots trace back to my graduation from UNCSA with a BFA in Theatrical Scenic Painting in 2014. Attending the School of the Arts marked a pivotal and rewarding chapter in my professional journey. Following graduation, I embarked on a nationwide tour, showcasing my artistic skills by painting backdrops, props, and interior sets for theatrical productions, including contributing to Skrillex’s Halloween tour across America. After nearly a year on the road, I returned to North Carolina, where I undertook the comprehensive painting of the entire set for The Prop Shop at the Kalideum Children’s Museum in Winston-Salem. Additionally, I applied my artistic talents to create several murals for clients’ homes and businesses. 

Throughout these diverse projects, my passion for photography flourished, leading me to introduce family photography services in 2010. Balancing this creative outlet with my painting endeavors, I discovered a profound love for capturing moments through the lens. Specializing in a wide range of family-centric events, from engagements and weddings to newborn sessions and pet photography, each photograph represents an opportunity to freeze time and encapsulate the enduring beauty of these precious moments. This dual pursuit has become not only a profession but a source of immense joy and fulfillment. 

A significant milestone in my professional trajectory occurred when I expanded my services to encompass wedding photography. Within a single year, I adeptly captured the essence of 98 weddings, and this strategic pivot has led to a substantial and sustained growth in my business ever since. 

Another pivotal chapter in my journey unfolded as I ventured into the realm of Real Estate Photography. Drawing on my background in Scenic Painting and Design, I bring a unique perspective to showcase homes in their best light. Collaborating with over 30 Real Estate Agents across North Carolina has been an honor, and I’m excited about the prospect of extending this collaboration to new partners. 

What I love most about my work is the ability to freeze moments in time, whether it’s the joy of a family celebration or the timeless beauty of a home. It’s a privilege to be part of these stories, and I’m enthusiastic about the creative opportunities that each project presents. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

The journey has been both enriching and challenging. While the experience at the School of the Arts laid a strong foundation, navigating the diverse realms of scenic painting, national tours, and mural projects presented its share of hurdles. The transition from extensive traveling to settling back in North Carolina brought its own set of adjustments. 

Building a successful business in photography, initially sparked by a love for the craft, required dedication and perseverance. Balancing the demands of photographing 98 weddings in a year, managing diverse projects, and maintaining a high standard of creativity posed logistical challenges. However, each obstacle was an opportunity for growth and learning. 

Returning to North Carolina, contributing to The Prop Shop, and undertaking mural projects demanded meticulous attention to detail and artistic finesse. The integration of photography into my portfolio brought a new set of challenges, from establishing a client base to refining my artistic style. 

Through these experiences, the path was shaped by a commitment to overcoming challenges and continuous improvement. While not always smooth, the journey has been instrumental in honing both my artistic and business acumen. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

I take great pride in the multifaceted nature of my work at Swan Creek Studios. As the owner and creative force behind the lens, I specialize in a wide array of photography services, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored approach to capturing life’s most significant moments. 

From the intimate beauty of weddings and the precious moments of maternity and newborn sessions to the warmth of family gatherings, I find joy in freezing time and encapsulating the unique essence of each occasion. My portfolio extends beyond traditional events to include business headshots, ensuring a professional and polished image for individuals and companies alike. 

Venturing into real estate photography, my background in Scenic Painting and Design uniquely positions me to make homes and properties shine. The fusion of my artistic vision with the technical demands of real estate photography sets my services apart, creating captivating visuals that leave a lasting impression. 

Moreover, my commitment extends to capturing the essence of pets through personalized portraits, reflecting the special bond they share with their owners. Holiday-themed sessions add a touch of festive joy to my repertoire, offering clients unique and memorable moments to cherish. 

What sets Swan Creek Studios apart is not just the diversity of services but the passion and dedication invested in each project. I am proud to be known for creating timeless and evocative visuals that resonate with the emotions and stories behind every photograph. My commitment to excellence, coupled with a genuine love for my craft, ensures that every client receives a personalized and exceptional experience. 

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?

In my formative years, I was an exceptionally energetic and engaged individual. From my early involvement in sports such as track and field, cheerleading, volleyball, and softball to my active participation in various clubs and special interests, including choir, art, and theatre, I embraced a diverse range of activities. My enthusiasm extended beyond extracurriculars; I found myself juggling responsibilities like babysitting and even secured my first job at the age of 15, working nearly full-time hours while still attending school. 

Despite the demanding schedule, I maintained a strong academic focus, earning a place in the Honors Society and consistently achieving straight A’s. Alongside my regular coursework, I delved into college classes, further fueling my passion for learning. 

While my dedication to academics and various pursuits left little room for extensive socializing, I cherished the time spent with a vibrant circle of friends. Our activities ranged from movie nights and shopping trips to shared interests like my love for scary movies. Hosting marathons of spine-chilling films became a favorite pastime, creating memorable moments with friends. 

Reflecting on my younger self, I acknowledge that I may have been a bit on the tall and lanky side, but I embraced it with a sense of humor. Despite any perceived awkwardness, I found joy in my ability to infuse humor into various situations. My formative years were a mix of diligence, accomplishment, and a touch of lightheartedness, laying the foundation for the diverse and dynamic individual I am today.