Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Lee.
Emily, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started playing around with taking and editing photos the same way many other ’90s kids did – Myspace. We had this online platform for the first time to be creative and get feedback, and all of a sudden, I found myself spending hours “perfecting” one photo. First, by finding some interesting outfit and unique pose, outstretching my arm as far as it would reach (no selfie sticks back then!), and taking a hundred photos to, then edit the life out of the best one on free tacky editing software, haha. It probably doesn’t sound fun to most people, but it was my first big hobby – one I felt I was good at.
I also watched a lot of America’s Next Top Model around that time, which really inspired me to get creative and caused me to fall in love with fashion photography in particular. In high school, I received my first DSLR camera. Even though I only knew how to use the manual settings and couldn’t control the flash popping out (lol), I would regularly recruit my best friend to model for me in some abstract shots that I considered to be very high fashion, thank-you-very-much. From that, I discovered I also enjoy directing people into a pose or a vision I have in my mind.
Those were the defining times of my life: the reasons photography became a passion of mine I would hold on to for ten years before getting an education and starting a business. I’m so fulfilled to now to be living out my dream, one step at a time. It’s really cheesy and amazing!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I mentioned receiving an education, however, what I did not mention is that I never finished formal education, because it is just too dang costly! I waited too long thinking I needed to finish my degree instead of just putting myself out there with the natural talent and experience I already had. Not to mention, the internet is an endless resource for knowledge (and marketing). I used school as a crutch – to bide my time and blame something else.
I want other creatives and entrepreneurs to know that your drive and passion will get you further than an official piece of paper on its own. Not to say that college isn’t great if you can afford it, because it can really give you a push in the right direction. But just that a girl shouldn’t sit around waiting for anything to magically happen. Make it happen right now!
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am primarily a personal brand photographer. That means whether you’re an influencer or small business owner, I understand your needs for consistently putting out great content that not only catches your audience’s attention but shares your individual story. I love putting someone’s brand – their hard work – in the best light possible by photographing products, lifestyle, headshots, behind-the-scenes, and small events in a way that communicates personality and trendiness.
My clients know I’m pretty goofy while I work (mostly because I can’t contain my excitement about pretty stuff), but for them, that means they can be relaxed, which I love.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
As a photographer, Katelyn James has got to be the sweetest and most helpful person online. She’s taught me so much technique.
In marketing, Jenna Kutcher is the wisest and REALEST inspiration. She always brings me back down to earth when I’m trying too hard to look perfect to the rest of the world.
When it comes to my website, Paige Brunton is my go-to girl (Squarespace guru. She gets it).
Contact Info:
- Website: www.byemilyjane.com
- Phone: 972 364 7835
- Email: byemilyjane@outlook.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/byemilyjane
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/byemilyjanephotography
- Other: www.pinterest.com/byemilyjane
Image Credit:
Emily Jane
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