Today we’d like to introduce you to ALLISON AMORES.
Hi ALLISON, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, photography was always a big deal in my house and I really can’t remember a time when it wasn’t a part of my life. My Dad was a freelance photographer in the 80’s and had converted our basement into his darkroom. I can still remember the smell of the toner and developer. It truly was his passion, and he was published and won quite a few local awards. I know for sure that had a big influence on the value I placed on photos and photography from the beginning.
As early as I can remember I was taking photos on my 110 camera. I think I was 6 or 7 when I gifted my parents a photo shoot for their anniversary. I bet my mom still has those photos. I remember how excited I was in 5th grade I think it was, when I upgraded to a 35mm Vivitar camera.
Throughout my school age years I was obsessed with taking photos, especially in middle school, and remember always sharing double prints with my friends. The same held true in college (I had upgraded to a Canon by then), we were still sharing double prints, and I still have over a dozen photo albums from then.
While home on college breaks I worked at a One Hour Photo lab and learned to run the high volume machines and develop photos for the customers, which I loved. After college I got a little pocket-sized Sony (my first digital) and that went everywhere with me, along with my flip phone and iPod. I remember thinking how amazing it would be if I could just carry one thing that did it all instead of 3. Who would’ve known!
The birth of my first child was really what pushed me to get some formal training – to take classes and learn how to improve my photos with proper composition, lighting, and editing. Soon after starting classes I realized how much really went into creating good photos and how much I still needed to learn, so in 2015 I completed a year long 365 project and practiced shooting every day. This taught me so many lessons and it is something I’m still very proud of completing.
I’ve been taking courses, doing mentorships, and learning in one way or another since then. I’m constantly trying to improve and grow.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’d say the road has been fairly smooth with the exception of a few bumps here and there. We moved to Texas in 2020, right when Covid hit. Establishing a business in a brand new place where you know no one, during a lockdown for a pandemic definitely made it harder. But other than that, really the hardest part for me has always been my own critique. I’m always focused on what I could do better.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When I started out, I wanted to photograph everything. Although I got serious about learning photography to take better pictures of my daughter, I still was excited to just photograph anything. As time went on I realized that I loved taking photos of all kids, not just my own, and capturing semi-candid family photos really made my heart skip a beat as well.
As more time passed and I met other women who were also business owners, I really felt drawn to capturing the story of them and their why, so branding photography for women owned businesses has really become my passion.
I’m proud of my perseverance for sure. Constantly working on improving your craft can be a lot – while working, raising a family, and all the things life throws our way. I’m proud that I haven’t just settled for good enough.
I think what sets me apart from others is my light, soft, clean style for color and bold black and whites. People have told me they can spot photos I’ve shot and that makes me proud, knowing I have a distinct, recognizable style that people love. Also my commitment to excellence is something that I’m very proud of.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Client satisfaction is really important to me, I want everyone I photograph to truly love their photos and I work with my clients before, during, and after their session to ensure we get the best outcome for them. I know how important photos can be to people (like myself) and I feel honored to be selected and trusted with important milestones in people’s lives or to capture the essence of their businesses.
I probably should conclude with a note that my Dad passed away in 2004, before I had started any formal photography training or my business. I know that he’s with me though in spirit, always encouraging me and pushing me to keep learning and growing. I’m thankful for his influence that certainly lead me down the path I’m on today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://allisonamoresphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allisonamores
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonamoresphotography?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
All images captured by Allison Amores Photography
