Today we’d like to introduce you to Emma Mayfield.
Hi Emma can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started my photography journey in my junior year of high school. I took photography one as one of my dual credit courses, and I fell in love with it! I borrowed gear from family members/friends until I finally got my own camera a whole year later. (Cameras are expensive!) I started to teach myself how to shoot in manual by taking pictures of EVERYTHING. Flowers, food, friends, etc. I didn’t start taking photos seriously though until after I graduated.
I’m a full-time student at the University of North Texas studying business and photography. I do paid shoots more and more often, and I’m appreciative every time.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road, and I’m sure I have plenty of “bumps” ahead of me, but that’s okay! More learning opportunities, I’m sure. My first several paid shoots were rough. My clients were always kind and seemed happy, but I look back and think “oh god, why would I edit/focus/crop like that??” Everyone starts off somewhere though.
Finding my style has been a bit difficult, but I feel like I get closer to where I want to be each year. Another huge struggle has been trying to get constant clients and staying relevant on social media.
If I’m being honest, self-doubt has also remained a constant struggle. I started “emmagracephotography” almost exactly two years ago, and I’ve already had more “what am I doing with my life?” moments than I can count. I think that’s just a part of starting out as an artist though. You see all of these amazing photographers online, and you can’t help but compare and wonder what they’re doing that you’re not.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I do portrait photography.
I’m most proud of my studio work from this past year.
I’m different from others because I treat my clients with the same compassion and understanding that I would a friend. I’m working with them because I care; it’s more than just the money for me. I know what it’s like to look at a photograph of yourself and feel self-conscious about it. That’s why I work hard to make sure my clients feel comfortable and confident while shooting. I want them to look at the photographs and to feel both seen and beautiful. Knowing I can make people feel like that brings me a lot of joy.
How do you define success?
Right now, I define success as constantly improving. And to really master my craft in the way that I want to. My worst fear as an artist is to stop getting better. I love trying new things when I’m working and the feeling I get when it actually turns out good. If I can improve my photos and my relationship with my clients every year, then I would consider myself very successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emmagracephotography.com/
- Instagram: emmagracephotography_1
Image Credits
Main photo is taken by sydneytaylorphoto
