Today we’d like to introduce you to Tonya Swain Aniton.
Hi Tonya, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
I have always valued pictures for the moments/memories they are able to retrieve.
But in my recent years of adulthood & the rise of visuals trending throughout social media, I noticed how quick & easy-just one photo can become viral, misleading, disheartening, or even insensitive to the public eye and a misinformed audience. I vowed to bring truth, beauty, strength, bravery, innocence, & success back into perspective through the lens of photography.
In 2017, I was encouraged by one of my favorite cousins to really get serious about considering the pursuit of photography, after expressing how pleased & impressed she was with the graduation photoshoot I conducted for her daughter. I have been building the blocks for The Bigger Picture ever since!
The Bigger Picture focuses on portrait photography graduation shoots, maternity shoots, and birthday-themed shoots. Clients book their appointments for in-studio or on-location photo sessions. Most recently, the “360 Video Booth” has been added as an included service for event rentals.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Without a formal education in photography, learning special techniques for quality photos & great lighting was challenging, but never discouraging.
Not to mention the steep costs of cameras, lighting, props, supplies, & other equipment. I am grateful for the inspiring professionals that aspire me to be just as great, or even better in my own light.
The prolonged pandemic began to take the fun out of shooting with the no-contact orders in place, but I’ve ensured safe interaction amongst my clients with COVID-19 precautions enforced during the hire.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a serial entrepreneur & a 12-year business owner. I started my entrepreneurial journey in 2010 doing graphic design (DESIGNS.U.NV Creative Hub).
In late 2011, I launched my very own T-shirt line which has now grown into a mobile boutique (SouthernDemeanor). 2014 redirected my journey within Corporate America into insurance sales. I now hold Life & Health Insurance licenses independently for the State of Texas, as well as P&C licensing and becoming a certified mobile notary.
The Bigger Picture started in 2017, along with becoming the founder of “This Is 4 My Girlz, Inc.” a nonprofit organization, which annually hosts Charm School Workshops and the Adult Prom Charity Event.
I am most proud of being able to share my passion, skillsets, and purpose in the light of God.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was very sheltered growing up, with a broken family dynamic,
Personality-wise, I was quite shy & somewhat reserved. But those closest to me may tell an opposite story, lol.
I have always shared a great interest in arts, computer graphics, and having a broad imagination… which then, turned me into a BIG DREAMER, and now an undeniable GO-GETTER!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.biggerpictureonline.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/biggerpicture.studio
- Facebook: facebook.com/TheBiggerPictureStudio
Image Credits
The Bigger Picture Studio
