My path to becoming a professional photographer has not been a traditional one! I have my law degree but only practiced a few years before my husband's career took us around the country and the world. During our second expat assignment in Sao Paulo, Brazil, I was blessed to meet an amazing photography teacher, Fernanda d'Andrade, and studied with her for several years. She took my love of photography to the next level. From her, I learned many valuable lessons about the technical and creative sides of photography, especially how to use light properly. I'll never forget our awesome field trips, especially our overnight trip in the Atlantic rainforest!
It was during this time away from home that I knew my passion would be to create portraits that capture emotion and tell a story. I strive to create images that draw viewers in and make them linger.
A recent shoot in Downtown Memphis, TN is one of my favorites! Sierra is usually behind the lens with me, helping as a photography assistant. She has a fabulous sense of style and a lot of positive energy.
Sierra is an aspiring model and wanted to create dramatic and fun images that would showcase her unique look. I knew an urban setting would be perfect so we chose the South Main Arts District in Memphis, TN. The Arcade Restaurant (photographed behind Sierra) is Memphis' oldest cafe, dating back to 1925!
Sierra at the historic Arcade restaurant in Memphis, TNSouth Main is a one square mile neighborhood full of interesting stores, art galleries and restaurants. You'll find beautiful and thought provoking street art as well as a variety of colorful store fronts and graffiti filled back alleys.
We were lucky to find a parked Main Street Trolley car and a driver who indulged us in a few cool shots!
So many things came together to make this shoot a memorable one. Sierra and her mom were so easygoing and relaxed which allowed me to explore many creative poses and backdrops.
Thankfully folks in Memphis must be used to photographers working in the streets! They did not seem at all upset and waited for us patiently. That's our Southern hospitality at work.
After holding up traffic, we jumped into the South Main Market for a quick wardrobe change. The space was so interesting that we had to grab a few shots before heading outside again.
South Main Market, MemphisSierra has a great eye for putting together amazing outfits and this one did not disappoint. She inherited the gorgeous long black coat from her grandmother, who had it custom made in Egypt.
My favorite series of shots came from a back alley, complete with graffiti and barbed wire topped fencing. The light was amazing and Sierra's posing showcased her dramatic side.
As the light was starting to fade, we walked toward the Mississippi River and captured our last fun images of the session.
It was an amazing afternoon in our beautiful city....loved walking in Memphis with Sierra and her mom!
I absolutely love working with teens and families and look forward to helping you tell your story with beautiful images!
