Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Edwards.
Emily, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey in photo and video work began in high school through different clubs and class projects. This interest led me to film school, where I dove deeper into the craft. I thoroughly enjoyed my studies, but in many ways, I viewed it all as a degree, a skill set, that eventually became a career. Even with growing passion, it didn’t yet feel like an extension of who I was. It felt like a means to an end.
In my early career, I produced solid work and took pride in what I did, but something was missing. My creativity felt functional, not personal. I wasn’t yet connected to it in a way that truly pushed me. I needed a environment that would stimulate that.
This changed when I moved to Dallas and began working at Johnson & Sekin, an ad agency that became a real turning point in my story. Surrounded by a team of passionate, talented creatives, I stepped into a space that valued not just output, but why we create. The environment pushed me to level up and provided me opportunities to truly grow and create work of much higher production value.
During this time, a co-worker turned close friend, Ryan Orebaugh, invited me to start shooting photography outside of work — something I have to admit, I rarely did at the time. He introduced me to street photography and the practice of shooting on film. I was instantly hooked. There was something deeply grounding and exciting about creating art from everyday life. It brought, and continues to bring me, real joy. With this, a creative lifestyle began to develop outside of work. Photography was no longer just a profession; it became a part of how I moved through the world. I started creating not just for clients or campaigns, but for myself.
Since then, I’ve continued to develop my craft both through my Content Creator role at Johnson & Sekin and through the street and film photography communities here in Dallas. Being around others who are equally passionate, curious, and generous with their creative knowledge has fueled and shaped the artist I’m becoming.
I feel very fortunate to have experienced my journey and look forward to where my creative passions continue to lead me. I’m still far from a finished product. Always learning, always growing.
Alright, 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?
The road definitely hasn’t always been smooth, as covered in my previous response. And in some ways, I’m grateful for that.
When I first started in photography and videography, I saw them primarily as technical skills. I was good at them, and that opened doors, but I didn’t always feel creatively fulfilled. Early in my career, I was producing solid work, but felt like I was hitting a creative wall. What I needed was an environment that better stimulated my creativity and provided me more opportunities to work on a team. Johnson & Sekin provided me that environment upon moving to Dallas.
Another humbling realization was how little I was creating outside of work. It wasn’t until my friend Ryan Orebaugh encouraged me to explore photography beyond the job that something shifted. Discovering street photography and shooting on film reignited something in me.
Of course, there have also been the practical struggles — moments of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. But each of those experiences has forced me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a Content Creator at Johnson & Sekin, a Dallas-based ad agency where I shoot and edit both video and photography for a wide range of clients. My work spans everything from small-scale social content to large, integrated campaigns. I take pride in telling stories and crafting visuals that feel intentional, dynamic, and human.
Outside of agency work, I pursue personal photography projects that keep me creatively engaged. I’m especially drawn to film and street photography — capturing unique people, environments, and moments that can go unnoticed. It’s become a way for me to find and create art in everyday life. Street photography, in particular, has sharpened my eye and deepened my appreciation for spontaneous, unscripted visuals. I’m always looking for scenes that spark emotion and tell a story.
I’m proud of the work I do, both professionally and personally. Each side of my practice informs the other, pushing me to stay curious and continually evolve as a storyteller. You can view my work on my website or Instagram.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
If you’re looking to find a mentor or expand your network, the best thing you can do is be brave and put yourself out there. Growth often starts with simply showing up. Go to events where others in your field will be — gallery openings, workshops, talks, or local meetups. And don’t be afraid to reach out online, either. A simple message introducing yourself and showing genuine interest can go a long way.
When you meet someone you admire, take the time to really connect. Chat with them. Ask questions. Let them know what you’re working on, and if it feels right, offer to meet again — maybe for coffee or to collaborate on a project. Be clear that you’re not just looking for a quick gig or side hustle. Make it known that you’re serious about learning, growing, and building real relationships in your field.
Above all, be intentional, authentic, and kind. People respond to honesty and humility. If you approach others with respect and a clear desire to grow, you’ll be surprised by how many are willing to help or share their time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.trevorstiff.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevor_stiff
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorstiff
Image Credits
Trevor Stiff, Ryan Orebaugh, and Alex Teppert
