Why am I a photographer?
In our world where literally EVERYONE has a camera and EVERYONE is a photographer, why did I chose this as my career path? I know many great studios or individuals who have packed up shop and no longer take photos because it seems that the mass population does not value what us as professionals do. There is no standard to be a professional anymore. If you have a SLR, you are a pro. So why go to someone who has dedicated years and much $$, practice to being the best? The hours we have spent learning our craft, attending workshops, conferences, learning to create art, understanding prints and products, and how they are made to last can sometimes be overwhelming if it never feels appreciated. Does it have a purpose, or is our iPhone's good enough?
As a business owner AND photographer, can almost break you. Between having to be all aspects of your business sometimes(from janitor to CEO), and then trying to create something that others will love, your passion can die. There are times when I feel like giving up.
Then I think about my WHY for being a photographer. I am passionate about capturing an image of someone, and being able to change how they see themselves. Giving them a glimpse into who they are from the eyes of someone else. Proving to them they are beautiful, worthy, and cared for in this world. I want to create magic, dreams, and ethereal art in the form of the person I am photographing. It really is one of the highest honors to be chosen to capture a portrait of someone. I truly believe what we do as photographers is valuable because we are giving people a tiny piece of their life to save for the future. I also believe that there is no replacement for a tangible product to hold in your hand and see EVERYDAY. In our world of everything electronic and digital, your memories, your loved ones, should NOT require electricity to look at. So that is my Why. I want to create portrait art for your home to see and love everyday of the most important things in your life. I want to create portrait art for those who feel like they can't or shouldn't get their portraits created, or feel like they aren’t good enough to be in front of the camera. I want to create portrait art so that you know you are valued and worthy of an amazing life. I want to create portrait art so that you can leave an amazing legacy behind for your children, family, friends. This is my WHY and I love it.