Professional Artist Spotlight | Emily Garrick-Steenson

Name: emily g photography (Emily Garrick-Steenson)

Job Title/Description: photographer/owner

Personal  website: www.emilygphotography.com

What’s your camera of choice? Canon 5D

Finish this sentence:
Taking pictures makes me feel...intentional and focused.

What subjects do you love capturing the most?
That is too hard. I can't choose babies vs weddings. I would say any subject who is honestly feeling love and not paying attention to me.

Who are some of your photography icons?

• Anna Kuperberg
• Ben Chrisman
• Jonas Peterson
• Tara Whitney
• and so many more

Where do you find your inspiration to keep your photography fresh and creative?
My kids, I am always finding beautiful locations and then forcing them to let me take their photo. They are really over it, so I am always trying to find creative ways to keep them interested. I am also always inspired by peoples homes. When ever I get to include someones art or personal space in creating their portrait I am happy.

What was your most fun or crazy photography moment from this past year?
Flying to Chicago for a last moment engagement session. I don't get to travel much with 2 small kids, but  when this couple asked and offered to fly me out I took the chance. It was amazing, I really got to know and bond with them. When it came time for their oregon wine country wedding later in the summer it was like photographing an old friend. I really loved working with them.

What’s the key to doing what you love AND making a living?
Making it worth your while. There is always pressure in this industry to give away the work for free or at a great discount. People do not realize the amount of work that goes into photography. Only about 20% of my time is actually taking photos. Back end client communications, editing, marketing, accounting etc take up way more time. When someone wants me to do something for free they don't realize it is not just an hour of shooting they are asking for. I do charity events when I can, and give back as much as I can, but I also make sure my profit margin for my paid work is at a place where I can do that other work. I do this work because I love it, AND I want to support my family. Both parts of the equation are important, so I don't feel bad charging what I am worth. :)