Turning Passion into Profession: Ellie Thorpe (’25) Captures Stories
February 12, 2026 |2 min read
Ellie Thorpe, a 2025 graduate of Florida College with a degree in marketing, has transformed her passion for people and creativity into a fulfilling career as a wedding photographer. What began as a dream has quickly become her daily work, capturing meaningful moments while forming lasting relationships with couples and their families.
As a wedding photographer, Thorpe values connection just as much as creativity. Her favorite part of the job is getting to know her brides and grooms personally and celebrating one of the most important days of their lives alongside them. Photography allows her to combine artistic expression with genuine relationships, making each wedding uniquely personal.
Florida College played a key role in shaping Thorpe’s confidence and professional foundation. Through her marketing coursework, she gained hands-on experience working with real companies and seeing tangible results from her efforts. These opportunities helped her understand how to run a business, communicate with clients, and stand out in a competitive creative industry.
“Florida College gave me the tools I needed to be confident behind the camera, with clients, and at my laptop learning how to edit,” Thorpe says.
Thorpe credits the mentorship she received at Florida College as one of the most impactful parts of her academic experience. Professors invested in her growth and offered guidance she could trust as she planned her future career. Outside the classroom, Thorpe worked as a student photographer for Florida College which she says strengthened her work ethic and adaptability, teaching her how to approach every situation with professionalism and care.
Looking ahead, Thorpe hopes to become a full-time travel wedding photographer, exploring more of the United States and celebrating couples she has yet to meet.
Thorpe’s journey reflects how Florida College equips students with practical skills, meaningful mentorship, and the confidence to pursue their dreams, wherever those dreams may take them.