It was a day in January when the e-mail came across my inbox, and though I wasn’t expecting it, the opportunity had exciting possibilities and it was something worth considering. Though I hadn’t planned on hiring a photography intern for the summer, I wondered if this could possibly be an answer to a prayer I’d been asking about in needing some help with my business due to my plate being so full. But I had to chat with her first to make sure everything was a good fit and I was clear on what she wanted to learn.
After our initial conversation, which led to me following up with references and an in-person meeting, I felt strongly that this could work out well, and that God had brought us together for a reason. I was excited to see where this would lead.
We have now been working together for a little over six weeks, and I’d like you to meet Addison Hagarty :) 
Addison just finished up her freshman year at Appalachian State and found me on a whim while searching Google. When I asked her why she was interested in doing an internship with a photographer who owns her own business, this is what she had to say:
“The post-graduation dream would be to work my way up to a position at National Geographic in order to blend my love of writing, storytelling, and picture taking to be able to share more of the world through my eyes. I was interested in learning the entrepreneurial and creative side of running a business this summer, and I am soaking up everything I’m learning, as well as actively developing my skills as an artist, communicator, and amateur business owner.”
Addison started helping out before her first day on the job began by helping me coordinate a styled wedding shoot we did at the end of May. Between securing a bridal model from NYC to helping me on the day of, it was evident to me that Addison is a go-getter and someone who is organized and ready to jump in.
I’ve enjoyed our conversations throughout the weeks and getting to know her better. When I asked where her inspiration comes from, she mentioned that her mom is one of the most influential people in her life.
“I am lucky enough to have the support of numerous strong ladies in my life, but it is safe to say that my mom tops of the list of inspirational cheerleaders. She is always there to turn to for a laugh, cry, or the honest truth: something I have learned to endlessly appreciate,” she said. “Family in general is the most important thing in my life. They have guided me along in my nineteen years, but given me the space to develop and make my own mistakes. They have taught me the value of being true to myself, and from this I have vowed to spread positivity. I want to encourage others to practice self-love, and I am constantly reminding myself that authenticity is the key to embracing fulfillment.”
Beyond Addison’s passion of documenting places from around the world and telling people’s stories, she is an avid lover of movies and books. “A trip to the theater to see the latest Oscar nominees or a walk around our local bookstores are opportunities I never pass up,” she said.
And when I asked what else she loved, she replied with “My cat Molly has been my partner in crime for rainy days, naps, and posing for a camera for close to twelve years now! Of course, also, If something has chocolate and peanut butter involved, I am in LOVE!”
You can see more of Addison’s portfolio here: http://imagesbyaddison.wixsite.com/photography
Stay tuned, as I’m excited to share with you more projects as we complete them this summer!
For more information about me (Kate Cherry) and the business I run, head on over to my About Page and learn more about the girl behind the lens.
