Just to make sure it’s out there: I LOVE what I do. I couldn’t begin to explain all the nuances of wonderfulness that I get to experience in my photography journey. But just for kicks, I’ll give it a shot.
- I love that there is so much to learn. Humans are made to learn, grow, and explore. We have a drive to improve, we love to perfect. There is something so exhilarating about “nailing” a shot you’ve botched so many times. Case in point:
Ladies and gentlemen, this was not the first baby I tried this shot on. Lets just say those other attempts will not see the light of day. ;) But bit by bit, I’m getting it! I’m picking up to techniques, sharpening my eye, and becoming more proud of the work I’m producing. That is a magnificent feeling.
2. You get to show the world how beautiful you think people are. You would be amazed at how often I hear the phrase “I hate seeing images of myself. I look terrible in pictures”. It breaks my heart. And these are all amazing people who, to me, exude so much beauty. I LOVE catching that shot where they look absolutely radiant - usually because they are surrounded by those they love. I want to make people feel as fabulous as they truly are.
3. You get a sneak peak at couples who are truly best friends. I think everyone likes to see a love story played out before their eyes. I certainly do! But even the closest of couples tend to be more reserved when they are out and about. They save those moments of true connection for the safety and comfort of their living room, where no one is watching them. Most of the time couples are a bit nervous and reserved when they’re in front of a camera. But every so often, I get to be privy to a little spark of connection where my camera is forgotten and it’s all about them - and Ilove it. :)
4. Sometimes you get to watch these little ones grow up. I’ve only been doing photography intensively for a few years, but I’ve already gotten a taste of capturing the same kiddos again and again over time. My favorite is that first year when growth happens so very fast! You get to see that baby face change into the face of a beautiful little child. It’s magical.
5. I get to explore this unique city of El Paso. I know, I know, many of the residents of El Paso are not here by choice. They are counting the days until they can get out. But I’ll tell you a secret - I LOVE it here! The people are friendly and inviting, the winters are sunny and mild, and the food is fabulous. And some of the parks aren’t too shabby either! In my ever-continuing quest to discover every photo friendly nook and cranny of this city, I have made some delightful discoveries. And I’m always looking for more. I’ll tell you one more secret - if you tip me off on a jewel of a location I haven’t discovered yet, I’ll make it worth your while. ;)
6. The families are so cool! Every family is different. Some show up looking classy in their fancy clothes, some hip and contemporary, some casual and sporty. They all have their own vibe, their own sense of humor, and their own way of interacting with each other. I get to be a fly on the wall as the family hangs out - and I am always delighted by what I see. This city is full of fascinating people, and this job puts me in their path.
7. The outtakes are hilarious. As a photographer, I am privy to some pretty excellent moments of kid crazy. I try to make sure the final product is a healthy dose of life as you would like it to be remembered, but sometimes the moments that don’t make the cut really deserve to go down in infamy!
8. Being a family photographer means you get to goof around with some pretty awesome kiddos. My clients' kiddos crack me up! They have the energy and enthusiasm that I could only dream of, and they are twice as cute as I am to boot! I genuinely enjoy them and hope for the chance to hang with them again.
9. Senior photography is crazy fun. I still remember how exciting it was to be 18. I love working with young people ready to tackle the next phase of their life - sharing in a little part of that adventure. You can almost see the possibilities swimming in front of them. I love soaking up that zest for life and capturing that moment for them to hold on to.
10. You get to give a gift that is truly valuable. Okay, gift is a funny word considering that I, of course, charge for my work. But I hope that some of the images I provide will be cherished and valued well above the money that exchanged hands. It is an amazing feeling to look at a picture and think “wow, that picture of a little girl and her daddy could very well be kept and treasured when she is grown and her father is gone.” What a cool feeling. It keeps me doing what I do even when i’m tired.
So that’s it. My top 10. I hope this gave you a little bit of insight into who I am as a photographer and what I pour into my photos. What do you love about what you do?