Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Carmona.
Hi Michelle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
During my formative years, articulating my thoughts verbally proved challenging. Being an introverted child compounded the difficulty in forming connections and seeking guidance from teachers. It was rather difficult as my parents expressed their love through their actions rather than words. Photography became my sanctuary—an avenue to articulate my emotions and find solace. Throughout my career, I’ve encountered diverse individuals with compelling stories, ranging from Olympic athletes to cowboys and even the elderly gentleman by the coffee shop, effortlessly juggling a cigar and offering kindness to passing people and their dogs.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Throughout my career, I’ve faced numerous challenges, such as enduring weeks without clients, grappling with the demands of consistent social media engagement, and navigating the process of starting afresh in different states, among others. Having a supportive network around me proves invaluable in maintaining motivation during these tough times. Embracing change, whether in the form of relocation or technological advancements, has become a cornerstone of my professional growth. The collaboration with like-minded individuals and the constant pursuit of refining my skill set are integral components ensuring I remain at the forefront of the evolving industry.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
My aspiration is to be a storyteller through my photography. I aim to immerse the viewer in the captured moment and inspire them to craft their own stories, allowing them to feel present in those instances. To hone my craft, I delved into history books and studied the works of artists across various genres, learning about their processes. Acknowledging that there will always be individuals more skilled than me and those who may challenge my abilities was a crucial realization on my journey to proficiency. To fuel my pursuit of excellence, I surrounded myself with individuals I aspired to emulate, shaping my approach to success.
The path to my current standing in photography was not immediate; it took time to discover my niche. Initially exploring various aspects of the field, it wasn’t until post-college that I found a passion for portraits and the travel aspects of my work. What distinguishes my approach from other portrait photographers is my inspiration from photographers who have influenced the photo industry, such as Albert Watson, Platon, and Sally Mann.
Currently, I dedicate my leisure time to connecting with individuals and brands I aspire to collaborate with, including Zach Bryan, The Mexican OT, and American Hat Co. Despite encountering challenges, like the occasional lack of response, I persist because at least I can say I tried rather than merely wishing for opportunities.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs, or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Photographers and those aspiring to tell stories through their work may find it valuable to explore the ‘Team Deakin’ podcast and examine the portfolios of photographers like Albert Watson, Platon, Richard Avedon, among others. Crucially, drawing inspiration from everyday life – whether at a rodeo, during a jog, or through interactions with people – is key. Inspiration can be derived from everything once you open your eyes to the possibilities.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michellecarmona.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeofmishy/
