1. How did you get started in photography and when did you start your business?

I was offered a job at a mall photo studio right after I graduated from high school. I didn't even know I was interested in photography, but once I started I never looked back! I worked my way up to manager and often traveled to other studios to train the staff when a new location was opened. But when my 1st daughter was born 12 years ago I knew I needed to start my own business so I could be home with her. I definitely wasn't on the fast track to business success with 3 more children born within the next 8 years; I took a more slow-steady approach. ;)

2. Where are you located? Do you have a studio space or do you shoot on-location?

Originally from Monmouth, Oregon we have made many moves in the last 3 years and have finally settled in Roseburg, Oregon. Currently, I shoot on-location but hope to find the perfect studio space once all of my kiddos are in school full time!

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3. What do you shoot with and what are your favorite lenses?

After making due with a used Canon 10D and then a 5D Classic, and just one lens (a 50mm 1.4) I finally got to purchase my first new camera and lenses a year ago! I now get to shoot will a Canon Mark iii and a 6D as my backup. I think one of my all time fave lenses would have to be the 50mm 1.4 but mine is in dire need of repair currently so its on the shelf for now :) My other favorite lenses are definitely my 35mm 1.4 and my 70-200mm 2.8!

4. What drew you to newborn photography? Do you photograph anything else?

Being in the photography industry for 17 years now I have always loved shooting newborns, but my eyes were opened to the possibilities back in 2008 when I began following Kelley Ryden and Tracy Raver. I knew from then on that newborn photography was what I wanted to do most. Over the years I have photographed all genres but more recently have followed my passion and specialize in Maternity, Newborn and Children.

5. How would you describe your style? Where do you find inspiration?

Oh, this question is always hard for me! I don't know! I guess I would describe it as elegant and classic with a vintage feel. Monochromatic color schemes in natural colors and elements of nature inspire me. Although I love to try new things so you'll often find me working outside my 'typical' style if I even have one ;). I am definitely inspired by Kelley Ryden and Tracy Raver. Kelley Brown and Sue Bryce are also huge inspirations! But I have to give a shout out to our very own Jen Blakeley because she has recently inspired me in so many new ways!

6. Have you taken any photography workshops/training?

I have not had the pleasure of taking any workshops, but I love Creative Live and have watched a few courses there. I've read some of Scott Kelby's books and watched a few of his courses online, but most of my training is purely trial and error and learning from my mistakes (LOTS OF MISTAKES!). I often wonder if I even really know what I'm doing, LOL! ;)

7. Where do you like to shop for props? Do you have favorite vendors?

Ha ha, actually I just make my props myself. I'm a big up-cycler and have taught myself to crochet. I am not making enough profit yet to justify buying props, but someday I fully intend on buying all of my props! I have purchase a handful of things and love ALL NEWBORN PROPS, Lavender Blue Baby, Just Hatched Designs and Petunia and Ivy. Other wise all of my props come from Goodwill, Marshalls, Ross or TJ MAXX.

8. What are three things you wish someone would have told you when starting out?

#1- Being a great photographer is not a matter of a gift you are born with, its a matter of hard work, practice, education and a determination to never give up.

#2- Stop comparing yourself because at a certain point a 'good photograph' is only someone else's opinion.

#3- Its Photoshopped! Because I started out with film, I used to beat myself up that my images didn't come SOOC just like so many I saw on the web! But then I found out about Photoshop and Actions and realized that what I was looking at wasn't SOOC!

9. What are your favorite things about NBP.com? How long have you been a member?

I've been a member for 2 years I think :) My favorite thing when I first joined was the critique boards! But now there isn't anything I don't love! The community is so warm and friendly. I love the contests, games and the fact that you can bounce ideas off each other without a concern of drama and negativity!

10. Please share with us your Top 5 Favorite Images. Why are they your favorites?

This image is one of my all time favorites. I was one of my first 'successful' newborn shoots where baby slept amazing the whole time!

This one is of my daughter. I love it because it reminds me of who she is at 3 yrs old. She adores little creatures, is so gentle and kind and calls them her friends.

I am very proud of this one. It was one of those moments where I came up with my VERY OWN idea! The instant it came to me I knew I had to create it. I totally had to bribe my kiddos because there were spider webs under the deck I had them crawl under!

This is one of my favorites because I was so pleased with how the lighting came out. I felt accomplished because it confirmed to me that maybe I do know what I'm doing ;)

This last image is special to me. During the shoot the mama and I were talking about childbirth and how after so many kids (my 4th and her 5th) we were still so scared to go through it again. This idea came to me in the moment and I knew I wanted a piece that gave a more fine art feel and represented the strength and courage women have to conquer their fears of childbirth and being a good mother.
 

11. What is your photography site and NewbornPhotography.com url?

Blog  |  Facebook  |  NBP Profile | Google+ | Instagram

12. Lastly, tell us about YOU! Who are you other than a photographer?

Would you like to be our next Spotlight Photographer? Fill out our Spotlight Photographer form HERE! We look forward to featuring you!