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Downtown West Point has a new storefront. Birds on a Wire Photography held its ribbon cutting at its new studio at 718 3rd Ave in West Point. 

The owner and operator, Crystal Maria Hill, has been photographing in the Valley Area under the Birds on a Wire name for almost 15 years. 

“People think it’s odd that I’m having the grand opening because I’ve been doing it for over 15 years, but I wanted to rededicate myself to a spirit of excellency … Last year was the most difficult financially, and I wanted to quit,” Hill said. 

She recalled that right before throwing in the towel, the space in West Point opened up. She had a small work space above what is now her studio. 

“I took the leap of faith and moved down…this studio space is large enough and I can do more artistic things in it,” Hill said. “It was just the perfect time for me to relaunch, and not necessarily with a new logo or anything, but a new mindset.”

Hill said she has never been interested in focusing on one style of photography. Her passion lies in the subjects, the people she captures. It makes sense that most of her offerings are human-focused, including weddings, boudoirs, senior portraits, births, headshots, event coverage and styled sessions.

Making people comfortable and getting clients to trust that their photos will come out well is a vital skill for photographers. As fellow business owners, friends and family crowded into the new studio, it is evident that Hill has this attribute. 

“I always say that my currency is people and not money. So I knew that I should stay in the business, because the impact that you can have over people will outweigh the financial issues that you’re struggling with,” she said. 

The best part of the job, said Hill, is allowing others to see their own beauty. 

“So many women who come and do the lingerie shoots…it’s scary for anybody, even if they have a lot of confidence,” explained Hill. “One of my favorite things is when they see their pictures and say, ‘Oh my god, I’m beautiful,’” Hill said. 

Those interested in Hill’s photography services can find the business at birdsonawirephotography.com, on Facebook with the same name or by calling (334) 704-4644.