I am so excited to have Angela Wengrenovich on the blog today! Angela is a family, school and sports photographer, based in Grapevine, Texas. Angela joined the Sandra Coan Certification program in spring 2023, and became a Sandra Coan Certified photographer in July 2024. In our interview, she discusses how she went from feeling like an imposter in the photography world, to becoming a confident photographer who knows her craft and attracts excited clients.
You can find more about Angela at her website (Angela Wengrenovich Photography).
What was your business like before joining the Certification program?
Before joining Certification, my work was all over the place so my business was all over the place. If someone needed a photographer for something, I would take the job. I didn’t know exactly who I wanted to photograph, but I just wanted to make this work.
What were your biggest struggles in business?
I had no clue how to run a business. I thought I was good since I had figured out how to set up my legal business, got a contract or two, and set up an Instagram account. I had no clue how to market or how to reach clients beyond my friends or mom groups.
What made you decide to join?
The dreaded imposter syndrome made me join. Since I had not taken a photography class since a Photojournalism 101 class my freshman year of college, I felt like a fraud. I would get so nervous before every session and be so anxious through the delivery of the photos. I would think that the clients were going to realize I was a joke and that they could have taken better photos on their phone. I wanted to shed this and feel like I could confidently say that I knew what I was doing. I also wanted someone to critique my work so I would know if I was on the right track. I needed some external validation from someone or multiple someones who knew what they were doing.
What was the most valuable part of the program for you?
The community is by and far the most valuable part of the program. I have never met a more caring, open, honest and kind group of creatives. We all honestly want to get better and help those around us to get better and laugh a lot while doing it. I have made some dear friends through this process who make me a better photographer and a better business woman. Also, having Sandra and other certified photographers give feedback on my work has been invaluable. I know that I’m on the right track because I have folks looking at my work and helping me get it better every time I ask for help. I’ve learned so much by asking for feedback and even in giving feedback to other photographers.
How did the program change the way you approach lighting and photography?
I actually know how to pick out what lighting I like and create it versus accidentally stumbling upon it. By studying different lighting patterns, I know what I like and why and can create it myself. I went from being someone who prided themselves on being a “natural light photographer” to someone who prefers my work outdoors with strobes and flash.
How has your business changed since completing Certification?
100% my business has grown because my confidence has grown. I feel like I am in charge of every session because I have a plan. That confidence makes my clients trust me, makes my work more consistent, which in turn increases my bookings. I feel confident to go into almost any situation and know that I will create consistent work.
Have you noticed a shift in how clients perceive your work or expertise?
I feel like people now look forward to when I’ll be on campus for their school photos and are excited when I open up my calendar because they know they’re going to receive quality images of the people they care most about.
What surprised you the most about the program?
The amount of confidence I’ve gained as an artist and how much that’s translated to running a business. Just having someone confirm I’m on the right track and nudge me back towards it when I stray has been amazing. I shouldn’t be surprised, though. I’m an athlete by nature and I’ve always said that I am fastest with a coach with a whistle. If you want to get better at something, you need to have guidance and encouragement.
If you could give one piece of advice to future members, what would it be?
Don’t be afraid of investing in yourself by doing this. You will earn back any monetary investment easily, but you will gain so much more by doing this program. If you jump in and do the work and aren’t afraid to show your work to grow, you’ll learn so much from Sandra and all of the photographers in this great community.
Where can we find more of your work?
At my website, Angela Wengrenovich Photography, on Instagram, or Facebook.
Wondering if the Sandra Coan Certification program might be the boost to your confidence you’ve been needing? Head to the Certification page to apply! Applicants will be able to set up a discovery call with me, where we can chat about if the program is right for you.
