Interrogation, Part One

This is probably one of the cheesiest things I’ve ever done, but considering I’ve been away from the blogosphere so long, a little “get to know me” series might be called for… After all, I’m a lot different since I first moved to southeast Tennessee four years ago (ie. unmarried, degree-less, not legal drinking age, etc.). So let’s begin!

How long have you been a photographer?
It’s difficult to answer since I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures. I probably started thinking of myself as a “photographer” when I first moved in with Amy, my first roommate. That’s when I got my first Nikon and I went crazy with it.

When did you get into photography?
I’m not sure the exact time, but it was during high school. I have to give certain friends credit because they got into it way before I did. I just wanted to be cool like them.

What photography styles do you specialize in? Can you briefly describe some of your creative shots?
My style is definitely still being developed. I would say my style has a photojournalist-feel but sometimes, its difficult to get the shot without people trying to pose for you. People are, by far, my favorite subject, but I also enjoy cityscape photography and almost anything taken at night with a long exposure. I’m also a huge fan of color—loud, vivid, vibrant, delicious color.

What type of camera and equipment do you use?
I currently use a Nikon D80 and I just recently became armed with a more impressive arsenal of lenses. My favorites are the 50mm/f1.4D that I purchased last January with birthday money and more recently, my 17-55mm/f2.8 which was a graduation present from my parents. I also have a SB800 flash unit, which comes in major handy. I hope to upgrade to a Nikon D3X eventually, but the D80 is definitely a “mini beast” by itself.

Describe the moment you decided it was time to pursue photography as a career?
If you’ve read over the last several years of posts, you’ll know that I’ve always enjoyed telling stories and taking pictures. Its just something I’ve always done—it simply comes naturally. Photography has become more prominent in my life as I’ve taken more pictures. I probably never made an actual conscience decision but I’m pretty sure something happened to me when I first moved out at age 19 and got my first Nikon. This feeling came over me whenever I went out to take pictures and I would think to myself, I really love this.

What is one thing you’ve learned so far that has proven most valuable?
If you want something bad enough, its hard not to achieve it.

What makes you different from everyone else?
No one else has my brain, my heart, or my eyes. So no one else will get the exact same shot. Period.

Who is your one favorite up-and-coming photographer?
I barely classify as “up-and-coming” so its hard for me to know who’s out there. But I’m fairly certain that Sara Renee Murray is, by far and away, the most amazingly talented photographer I’ve ever known. She was born to do this—there’s just no question about it. And that’s why I hired her to do my wedding. 🙂

One item you can’t live without?
My gym membership. And my stainless steal water canteen that acts like an extra appendage—I never leave home without it.

Favorite book?
Donald Miller’s Searching for God Knows What. And right now, I’ve succumbed to the Twilight series—even with all its cheese, its irresistible!

Favorite movie?
I absolutely love the Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy. If they make a fourth one, I might just pass out and/or die.

Where do you find inspiration?
Usually, inspiration comes in the moment I’m shooting and becomes stronger as I go along. All I have to do is shoot and inspiration shows up.

If you could shoot with anyone, who would it be?
Annie Leibovitz! I mean, WOW!

Are you a member of any organizations and have you won any awards?
Not a member of anything (except the “All People Who Are Awesome” club) but I was awarded a stipend from my university during my senior year. A week before I graduated, my photos were put on exhibit and honored during a luncheon for the school’s Communication Department.

Anything else you’d like to share?
Sure! I take two Flinestone Gummie vitamins every morning before breakfast. I crave oatmeal, veggie burgers, and sugar free popsicles at any time of day. I hate washing dishes. I love being married to my husband. I’ve had the same best friends since elementary school. If I really like a movie, I can watch it over and over again for weeks at a time. I love Twitter. If he were still alive, I would write Nick Drake a letter about how his music sounds like my very soul. I’ll be a mother someday. And Seattle will always be home.

Once again, I invite any other questions readers may have! If you have any, please comment below! Or, if you’re in the area and are interested in booking a shoot, please feel free to check my “Contact & Pricing” link above for info. Thanks!