1. How did you get started in photography and when did you start your business?
I was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV and I didn't quite know what I wanted to do. I got a graphic design degree from an Art school and did a lot of jobs I was not happy with when I realized I wanted to be my own boss. I have always had a love for photography and one of my friends doubted me when it came to capturing/editing something unique, so I grabbed my camera and daughter and we went to the park, I came home and LOVED the results, so with my friends and family telling me "you should do photography" and "you have an eye for this" and "you are a natural", I started to seek out the industry to see if it would be something I came to love. Sure enough, I did and I was good at it, it felt natural, so I pursued it fully. I started out wanting to be a graphic artist for a magazine and in turn found my love elsewhere in Photography. I am slowly starting to cater my services to just Newborn, Baby and Outdoor.
2. Where are you located? Do you have a studio space or do you shoot on-location?
I am located in Henderson, NV, about 15 min from the Las Vegas strip. I own a gorgeous studio with my business partner Fatima. We both shoot studio, natural light studio and on-location.
3. What do you shoot with and what are your favorite lenses?
I shoot with a 50mm 1.4, however I also have a wide angle that I use occasionally. I really love my 50mm and since I primarily do Newborns, I pretty much stick with it most the time.
4. Do you shoot anything other than newborns?
I feel I can be the most creative with Newborns, it’s quiet, calm and peaceful and I get to snuggle babies all day, it’s the best job ever. I do shoot other types of sessions like, Engagements, Families, Seniors, Kids, Babies, and Maternity, but there is nothing like photographing a squishy Newborn.
5. How would you describe your style & where do you find your inspiration?
I am a whimsical photographer, from my props to my sets and even my backdrops; I am colorful and fun all the way. I love being able to personalize a session with crazy props and lots of character. I feel my personality is the same, so people love to just come let go and have fun with me. My inspiration comes from all around especially living in Las Vegas, but mostly I follow my all time favorite Mrs. Keri Meyers, she is who made my love Newborns. Anytime I have the change to view and become inspired by someone I do, as I hope someday I will inspire someone.
6. Have you taken any photography workshops and/or training?
I have not taken any training or workshops, I am self-taught. My passion has taken me very far. I have been trying to take a Keri Meyers Workshop for 3 years now, hopefully; soon I will be able too. I spend a lot of time on Lynda.com and my graphics degree has really made me an expert in editing/Photoshop and computers.
7. Where do you like to shop for your props? Do you have favorite vendors?
I am in love with Etsy.com, handmade stuff is the best. I also make my own props and challenge myself to be different. I shop at Photo Props and Backdrops for backdrops and props and sometimes Amazon. I have 4 vendors who work with me and provide the majority of my props, Virginia Vintage, Baby in the Hat, Magoo & Baloo Baby Boutique, and Treble Stitch. I have an insane prop collection. I also shop at Hobby Lobby, Marshalls, Ross and Homegoods, that’s where most my blankets come from.
8. Please share with us your top 5 favorite images!
This is one of my faves because its perfectly creamy, posed, simple yet whimsical. It also shows skill level posing a newborn on difficult props and making the baby look amazing.
This little guy is special as he was my second newborn in that family, which is the first time I have done a family newborn twice within one family. Plus it’s a one of a kind image that has never been done, including the amazing handmade coveralls and wrench to complete my vision. He was perfect.
This shows yet again my simple yet whimsical approach and who better to complete the package than a set of beautiful twins. I loved this concept and it represent "me and photography love" just like the love between "siblings" and "peanut-butter and jelly"
I love this one because she was honest and pure and wanted to take this photo with her baby brother so bad that the emotion is overwhelming. Plus I feel I got a great creamy image.
This shot shows beauty and pure newborn loveliness. It's simple, yet whimsical in color.
9. What are 3 you wish someone would have told you when you started?
1. How to make a white backdrop, white. Sounds silly, but until someone showed me I was a very frustrated photographer.
2. Panning. I feel like my images have improved a million times over since I have learned how to properly pan an image to frame a shot and gain clarity.
3. Props will break the bank. No joke, I have spent more on props than on my own kids. LOL but I love it so much I wouldn't trade it.
10 Lastly, tell us about YOU! Who are you, other than a photographer?
I am a mother of 10yr old daughter Aryliah, 3yr old son Odin, and our newest addition coming July 2014, baby boy Xander, so I have a pretty fully house. We live in Las Vegas, NV. As of 2013, I solely work at my studio and quit my other jobs. I am turning 31 this month, and am very satisfied as to where my business has gone these past few years. I only hope for an even prosperous next few years. I love learning, so I am always trying to learn new thing. I also love teaching, as that is what I have been doing for the past 4 years. Recently I started offering basic photography and editing classes at my studio and those seem to be very popular. I am very grateful for any and all opportunities that come my way. I am a very energetic, enthusiastic, creative, thoughtful and a fun loving photographer who just wants to capture memories that last a lifetime.
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Would you like to be our next Spotlight Photographer? E-mail us at info@newbornphotography.com with the subject “Spotlight Photographer.” We look forward to featuring you!