Meet Rana Tierney of Roohi Photography!
Hello there! Happy Hump Day! I hope your week has been a great one so far. It’s safe to say it’s about to get even greater. ;) Meet Rana Tierney of Roohi Photography. Rana has been capturing memories through photography for 10 years. She began as a wedding photographer and has since pivoted towards being a photog who specializes in senior photography for young women who are moving from one life phase to another. This change was a huge deal for Rana; it was a challenging switch but has given her the chance to spend the weekends with her two young boys and husband. Rana is a proud momma & wife. Her family has supported her career & helped her build a strong foundation that helps her not only succeed, but also thrive. She’s honest & passionate, and I know you’ll absolutely love her story. Enjoy her words & stay boss. xx -G
Tell us about yourself and what you do!
I am a thirty something mom, business owner and wife. I have been a photographer now for 10 years!! I never feel like I’m working, just doing what I love. I feel so grateful that I have a career where I can pick and choose when I work and when I spend time with my family. It's been a joy being home weekends and watching my kids grow up. My jam is high school senior photography. The joy I get from seeing a young women see how beautiful she is from the inside out is something that "fills my cup" daily. What an honor to be a part of their final year of high school! I also love, love branding and family sessions!
How did your business begin?
It all began during a family reunion in 2008. My dad graduated in photography (his 2nd degree) and he had his digital camera with him. I was fiddling around with it and couldn't stop. I took it home and that's when it all started. During a time when the economy was crashing and people were losing their jobs, I thought "Hey! I'll start a business!" Everyone thought I was foolish - but I kept pushing forward. After 3 years of working a full time job and photography, I was able to quit the corporate world. I've been photographing portraits now, full time, for 7 years!
What’s 1 challenge you’ve faced and 1 success you’ve had since you’ve created your business?
In the beginning it was work/life balance. I was working SO much, and I knew I had to to get to where I am today (and I still work hard!). I think it was challenging knowing when to work and when to stop, so I always worked. And my biggest success is just having my business. Working it while having 2 beautiful children. I keep saying, I ran a full time business when both kids were born AND home with me! I have no idea how I did it (and still do it!)! I feel successful all around. I thought success meant a certain amount of money. But it doesn't; success is doing what I love while still being with the ones I love.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and has it come in handy for you?
To breathe. Seriously - stop and smell the roses. Stop and be present. We are only human and can only do so much. So do it to the best of your ability and keep pushing! I guess that's more than one piece of advice. ;)
When are you at your happiest?
When there is a balance. When I can hustle all week and then stop and relax and enjoy the time with my family!
What do you tell yourself when things get difficult?
I say, "Rana, you have worked so hard and you push yourself so hard. Do Not Give Up! You can do this and things will get better!"
What are you grateful for?
I'm so grateful for my family, my friends and an amazing community of other women entrepreneurs who push me, get me excited about my work and are always there for each other!
What’s 1 personal goal and 1 business goal you plan to accomplish this year?
Personal goal - continue to focus on my health and my family.
Biz Goal - to really utilize my studio space as much as possible. It's such a beautiful space and I definitely want to be there more!!
Where can you be found on a Tuesday afternoon?
Depends on the day! Working, shooting, editing or at a Tuesday Together's Meeting!
Where can we find you on a Friday evening?
Relaxing with the fam!
Where can you be found on a Sunday morning?
Playing with the kiddos, then off to my husband's soccer game!
Finish these sentences:
I love: life. We are all so blessed, and life is so short. Love each moment you are given.
I’m always looking for: more time! lol
My inspiration is: my family. They inspire me to want more, push more and never give up.
I’ll never: give up on my dream.