Today we’d like to introduce you to Laynie Underhill.
Hi Laynie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have always had a deep interest and love for capturing the beautiful things that the Lord has made. I would always steal my mom’s camera growing up. Family vacations, birthdays, or even simple Iphone pictures I became the family photographer. I loved it. In middle school I started taking pictures with my Ipod touch. Nature, my friends, and my dogs were all subjected to my pocket camera. I would dress my friends up according to my vision and run around my backyard capturing said concept. These kind of ventures occured all the way through high school when I was gifted a Canon Rebel T1i with a 50mm lense. This is when I realized how deep my love for photography is. The joy of capturing people and the gift of communicating their stories is something I treasure. Since late high school I have been slowly building a business, starting with $25 photoshoots and a lot of hours on Youtube trying to figure out Lightroom. I have been so blessed to continue to build my brand falling more and more in love with the art of photography as I go.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My road has not been too treacherous. The main setback being my beginning equipment. My 15 year old Canon was definitely not high tech, but I am forever grateful for the learning experience it gave me. It forced me to learn how to work a camera, what each of the settings mean, and what the best settings for me are. I recently upgraded to a mirrorless camera, which has been such a blessing, but has truly made me so thankful for the years of learning my little Rebel inside and out. I would not be the photographer I am today without it.
Of course there is always the discouragement of believing your work is not worthy. I have constantly caught myself comparing my work to those who have been in the industry for many years. I have had to fight against believing that I am the worst photographer that I know. I am so thankful for the community I have had around me, pushing me and encouraging me when I am not in the spot I desire to be execution wise. It is discouraging when your work does not match your vision, but pressing on to better your work is the only way to get there.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer. I specialize in couple, portrait, and wedding photography. I am known for my cinematic storytelling style. I tend to stray away from the common posing and toothy smiles. While that photography has its place and is needed, my style leans more towards genuine storytelling. Communicating the energy people bring to a room, the love they have for each other, and who they are. I am most proud of my couple photoshoots. When I get to capture two people who are madly in love, my heart soars. The love people have for each other is so inspiring and emotional. Being able to capture such sacred and special seasons of life is one of my biggest joys.
What’s next?
I am planning on branching further out into different realms of photography. Focusing on improving my skills in film and editorial shoots. I love the depth that film brings and the carefree fun of editorial shoots.
Pricing:
- Portrait Sessions: Starting at $250
- Couple Sessions: Starting at $250
- Family Sessions: Starting at $300
- Weddings: Starting at $1000
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/layniegracephoto/
Image Credits
just me:)
