Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Drees
Hi Emily, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in Western New York, I thrived in the world of team sports, not as the star player but as the spirited personality who brought laughter and camaraderie to the locker room. Armed with a boombox and a camera, I cherished every moment, eager to freeze-frame those precious memories. My college years were a testament to my passion for documenting life, each Facebook album a time capsule of joy. However, my move to Salt Lake City marked a pivotal shift in my photography; I transitioned from capturing faces to embracing the breathtaking beauty of nature. The vast mountains and vibrant landscapes inspired me to see life from a new perspective. After relocating to Texas, I initially struggled to find the natural beauty I craved, but a spontaneous trip to a nearby pond led me to a revelation: wildlife photography. The first snap of a Stellar Jay ignited a passion I never expected. Delving into the intricacies of local birds and their behaviors transformed my lens into a portal of discovery. From watching red-shouldered hawks nurture their young to witnessing the elegance of Great Blue Herons, each photograph tells a story that reflects the profound beauty and resilience of life.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As I navigate the early stages of my photography career, I recognize that the path ahead will undoubtedly be filled with challenges. My journey from New York to Utah and then to Texas has been anything but smooth, compelling me to think creatively and seek out what truly brings me joy. It was during this search that I stumbled upon wildlife photography, a passion that has breathed new life into me. Moving to a new city with no friends or family, working from home, and starting over was daunting; yet, I learned to appreciate the small joys around me. Each encounter with wildlife became a reminder of the world’s beauty, reigniting my sense of purpose and connection. In those moments, camera in hand, I felt truly alive, discovering not only the vibrant lives of the creatures I photographed but also my own resilience and capacity for joy in the face of change.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a wildlife photographer, my passion lies not only in capturing the pure beauty of nature but also in raising awareness about the impact humans have on wildlife. Every weekend, I venture into the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, eager to document the vibrant lives of birds as they fish at dawn, observe our resident Bald Eagles at White Rock Lake nurturing their young, and witness the exciting moment when our three juvenile Red-Shouldered Hawks take their first flights in Colleyville. Each season brings a new wave of migratory birds, adding to the enjoyment. I take immense pride in the portfolio I’ve built, reflecting on all of the progress I’ve made and the friendships forged along the way during a time that I felt alone. Through my lens, the wildlife becomes my friend and I strive to highlight the delicate balance between nature and humanity, advocating for the wildlife that has captivated my heart and inspired my journey.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
At 36 years old, my journey has been one of truth and realness, marked by multiple moves across the country and a constant evolution in my craft. As I navigate the world of wildlife photography, I embrace the fact that I am still learning; this is all new to me, and I’m eager to document that progress. I openly share my experiences, acknowledging that neither I nor my photography is perfect. Each misstep and triumph adds depth to my story, reminding me that the journey itself is just as important as the destination. What matters most is that I’m having fun and discovering the wonders of the world around me, one photograph at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elutphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elutphotos/
Image Credits
ELUT Photography
