By Anna Robertson Ham | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TAUSHA DICKINSON
Tausha Dickinson knows how to freeze time and capture a moment. Her creative style, professionalism and spirited personality have made her a go-to photographer in middle Tennessee. She is even our go-to, here at YOUR Williamson. We love working with Tausha, as she understands and interprets our visions—and magnifies them. She knows how to make people comfortable in front of the camera, while also bringing their light to the forefront.
As a celebrate women in our May issue, Tausha is one photographer we want to celebrate in a big way. For our special Ladies Edition, we took the opportunity to talk more with Tausha about her passion for photography as well as her story of how she became a creative artist.
What first drew you to photography, and how did your journey begin?
I grew up constantly taking photos of the people around me—especially during my teenage years and early adulthood. I was always the one with a camera in my hand, chasing the little moments that felt too important to lose. Over time, I realized just how powerful a single image can be—how it can preserve memories, celebrate connections and even change the way someone sees their own story. I started my career photographing families and weddings. As I grew as an artist, I found my true passion in portraits and advertising photography—helping people and businesses feel confident, connected and seen.
How has your identity as a woman influenced your perspective behind the lens?
Being a woman has absolutely shaped the way I see people. I deeply understand that the majority of people don’t feel comfortable in front of the camera—maybe because of how they look right now or how they think they should look. Part of my passion is helping them push through that discomfort and truly see themselves the way I see them: absolutely perfect, just as they are. I’m always searching for those moments of realness, where someone drops their guard and lets their light show.
Were there any photographers—female or otherwise—who inspired you early on?
Definitely Annie Leibovitz. Her storytelling and imagination made a huge impact on me. Also, Vivian Maier, whose raw, unexpected street photography showed me how powerful unnoticed moments could be. And Richard Avedon, for the way he made simplicity feel absolutely electric. Their work gave me permission to think differently about how a photograph could feel, not just how it could look.
Can you walk us through your creative process when starting a new project?
It’s honestly a little crazy—and I love it that way. Of course, I plan and brainstorm ahead of time, mapping out the shots I want and where I can capture them. But one of the biggest reasons I believe I’ve come this far is my ability to completely change the plan on the fly if something better presents itself. I’m always on the lookout for a new way to shoot, a different angle, a fresh creative twist. At the heart of it all, though, I’m always focused on one thing: how I want people to feel when they see the final image. It’s about creating an emotional connection first—always!
How do you choose your subjects or themes?
If it’s commission work, my choices are based around the client’s vision—what they want to express and what matters most to them. My job is to bring their story to life in a way that feels authentic and true. When I’m shooting purely for myself, it’s all about exploration. Sometimes I’m inspired by something I’ve seen—a color, a mood, new lighting technique—and sometimes an idea just pops into my head and won’t let go. I’m always chasing something I’ve never tried before, something that stretches me creatively. I love taking an idea that only exists in my mind and turning it into something real and tangible. Creativity, for me, is about giving myself permission to experiment, to evolve and to create without limits.
What are your favorite locations to shoot at, in Williamson County?
Williamson County is overflowing with beautiful spots. I love shooting at Harlinsdale Farm, Pinkerton Park and the charming streets of downtown Franklin. But honestly, some of my favorite sessions happen in the simplest studio spaces—just clean light, a backdrop and the person in front of my camera. When it’s stripped down like that, it becomes all about the subject and the incredible beauty they already possess.
What project has been most meaningful to you, and why?
There are so many, but one of the most meaningful parts of my career has been my ongoing work with Best Buddies over the past decade. Through that organization, I’ve met so many amazing individuals and witnessed lives changed—not just for those they serve, but for all of us lucky enough to be involved. Best Buddies helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities find true friendship, job placement and community support. It’s such a joy and honor to donate my time and talent to them, and I’m pretty sure I’ll be doing this work for the rest of my life.
What advice would you give to young women hoping to pursue photography?
Start messy. Start scared. Just start… Your voice matters—even if it feels small or uncertain at first. The world doesn’t need another “perfect” photographer; it needs your perspective, your heart and the way you see the world. Stay wildly curious, find mentors who lift you higher and never stop creating. There is a seat at the table with your name on it—pull up a chair, roll up your sleeves and get to work. And here’s the part no one tells you at the beginning: photography as a career is way more about business than it is about taking pretty pictures. You have to create an incredible client experience. You have to make it easy, seamless and genuinely fun for people to work with you. If you think great photos alone will build your business, think again. The best photographers know how to build trust, communicate clearly and overdeliver at every turn. Mastering your craft is important—but mastering business is what will actually pay the bills.
To see more of Tausha's work and book your session, visit taushadickinson.com.
