Spotlight Series: Total Icon

Hello, anxious readers! It's time for my second installment in the Spotlight Series! Just in case you somehow missed what the Spotlight Series is all about & my first post featuring the uplifter of love & other things, Miss Lizzie Beadon,  you can check it out right over here---http://scarsofshe.blogspot.com/2014/06/spotlight-series-loveloft.html. 

Anywho, this week, our special guest will be someone with a confidence as bold and memorable as her hair color: the beautiful Talisha Ingram! This self proclaimed 'mommytographer' is the owner and proprietor of Total Icon based in her hometown of Memphis, Tennessee (where all your graphic design, photography and media needs can be satisfied). When she's not busy capturing beautiful moments and people, she is busy being a loving wife and mother to her two children. Or dying hear short cut the next color in the rainbow lol!

I stumbled upon Talisha on Instagram about a year ago and the very first thing that I noticed about here was her fiery red short hair! Like stoplight red hair lol! Yet, it appeared to really fit her sassy, down to earth persona that she just appeared to exude (my instincts almost never lie to me). Since then, she's brought a funky splash of color on my Instagram timeline & I guarantee that she'll definitely do the same for you! 
*Side note: this interview will be a 2 in 1--since I really feel that her level of confidence is very much interlinked with her business. Questions 1-6 addresses her confidence, 7-11 addresses her business. Enjoy!

1) When did you first decide to begin to embrace who you are?

Embracing who I am is a daily and ongoing process. I tend to hold on to things that have happened in my past. Especially the not so good or positive things. Through my ever evolving relationship with God, I am beginning to accept that I am fearfully and wonderfully made. That even before I was formed in my mother's womb that God has a purpose for my life that only I can fulfill. 

2) In what ways have you embraced who you are as a person?

I've learned to believe that my validation does not come from the opinions of others. I think that's the most important thing to learn; to not be so wrapped up in what other people might say or think. Be bold. Be you. Be beautiful. 

3) What event in your life was the turning point when you realized it was time for a change?

After having children, I really blossomed into who I am. I guess I really didn't have a choice. Lol! 

4) Has your level of self confidence ever been an issue for you? Why or why not?

Yes, I was always seeking validation from others. Until I realized that most people were trying to "figure things out" just like I was. We tend to put others on pedestals while making ourselves inferior. That's a lie. God showed me the truth. 

5)   Who inspires you the most to be confident in who you are? Why?

My daughter. She looks up to me. I want to be her best role model. 

6) If you could give others that may be struggling with their confidence and embracing who they are some advice, what would you tell them? 

Be gentle with yourself. We are all trying to survive and figure things out. We appreciate the mountain having spent time in the valley.

Be bold even when you don't feel it. Be you even when it feels easier to be someone else. You were created with purpose. Fulfill it.  

7) What is the purpose of Total Icon?

Life is iconic and I desire to capture it through the medium of photography. 

8)Why did you create Total Icon?

To offer photography that was beyond staged and generic. To create something raw and memorable. Something iconic. 

9) Where do you see Total Icon going in the future? 

The possibilities are endless. 

10) Who or what inspired you to create Total Icon? 

Myself and my love of photography. 

11) How would your life be different if you didn't have Total Icon?

 I think there would be a void. Photography is my passion and is very fulfilling. 

Before I sign off, I wanted to thank my special guest, Talisha, for taking time out of her mommytographing lifestyle to further confirm to others out there that anybody can go from ordinary to iconic in an instant if we choose to live as the breathtaking being you already are. 

If you want to add a little flavor to your life (or hair lol), admire some gorgeous pictures or potentially have a great talent snap a few of your own, you can catch Talisha via

-Facebook( https://www.facebook.com/TotalIcon)

-Wix ( http://totallyiconic.wix.com/portfolio)

-Tumblr (http://theiconiclife.tumblr.com/)

-or Instagram (@theiconiclife)

Also, If you'd like to be the next featured guest on the Spotlight Series, feel free to:

-DM me via Twitter (@ambition4life_) or Instagram @rubiesandpearls_)

- or email me at thomas.jazmine@gmail.com 

Stay tuned for the next episode! Over and Out!