Beyond the Blue Studios, operated by the amazing Gara Hill, captures memories for families across the metroplex.
In the fall of 2008, I purchased my first big girl camera. At the time I was still a practicing real estate attorney but decided to take a couple of introductory photography courses through the continuing education program at the University of Texas at Arlington. We were preparing to start a family soon so I wanted plenty of knowledge and practice! It was not long after I started taking pictures for friends (although I look back and cringe at these images) that my business and family began to grow. In January of 2010, I “retired” from law firm life and opened up my photography biz full-time. And by full-time, I mean here and there as the schedule of a stay-at-home mama to a then-4-month-old would allow. I re-branded from Gara Hill Photography to Beyond the Blue Studios in the summer of 2012.
My bread and butter are kids and family photo session. I love engagements, seniors, maternity, and kiddos about 3 months old and older! I really channel my inner-vogue when photographing seniors. In 2015, I would like to focus on growing my ladies’ glam session business, which includes professional hair, make-up, styling, and beautiful portraits of 
women of all ages looking and feeling amazing. Part of the reason I want to grow my ladies’ sessions is that I’ve seen women undergo a huge change in confidence just by seeing what I see through my lens. A beautiful photograph highlighting inner and outer beauty may be just the boost she needs to conquer something big. I love the idea of using photography to help women embrace themselves and feel empowered!
My most popular session (which is only offered on certain days during the year) is my “micro session,” which lasts 10 minutes and is like rapid fire photography! It totally works well for toddlers and small kids (and husbands) with fairly short attention spans. It also is budget-friendly and allows most of my clients to have two sessions during a year. I also offer a full session that includes a digital and print component (so I know that at least some of these gorgeous photos are actually ending up being printed).
Capturing the Priceless
Each month or as an opportunity arises, I do “happy heart sessions” free of charge to adoptive families, children or adults battling illnesses, and single parents, among others. The recipients are always so grateful for the documented memories, but I am always just as blessed by their stories and strength. Additionally, on November 22, I, along with Jamie Cain Photography, will be hosting our Third Annual Christmas PJ Adoption Fundraiser to benefit a local family in their adoption. All proceeds from this three hour come-and-go event go to a DFW family who is adopting. We have raised more than $3,000 in the last two years.
I delight in becoming “part of the family.” My business model works for me because I get to know the families I routinely shoot. I watch them grow and are able to capture their true selves. Life isn’t perfect, and if you just want perfect portraits, then I’m not for you! But if you want to truly relish in the life you’ve got, then I’d love to help you capture that!!
Gara and her husband–along with their two kiddos, Travis, age 5 and Maryn, age 3–live in Arlington, Texas. Their family is involved with the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, Boys & Girls Clubs of Arlington, and Leadership Arlington, among others.
