On a whim a few years ago, I bought a DSLR and had no idea what to do with it, so it sat collecting dust for a looooong time. This past year though, I’ve made a point of really taking it out and shooting more and more and, funny enough, some people have asked for paid shoots, which is super flattering. I’ve lined up a few family sessions in the coming months prior to my move, and I’m so excited to get out there and keep learning by doing.
Trust me when I say that I have a lot to learn. I haven’t taken any photography courses. I study lighting by doing more shoots and seeing what works best. I generally shoot in natural light because it makes for the best shots. I’ve struggled with self-doubt about it a lot because, well, who doesn’t?
At the end of the day though, I really love what I do. It’s just an added bonus that people want to shoot with me sometimes! I like doing styled shoots, but my preference is always natural – family, bridal, engagement, newborns, etc. Now that I’m moving to Arizona, I’m tempted to start shooting (and advertising) more often…but I fear rejection, so we’ll see.
As an aside: if you live in New England and would like to shoot with me before I move, I’m offering mini family sessions now through December 2nd. For just $75, you’ll get 30-45 minutes of shooting time, plus 20 edited high-res images on a disc. Just email melissabethphotography@gmail.com Shameless plugging 🙂