Ever since I was younger, I have always loved pictures. Not of me of course. But of nature, family, friends, my dogs, etc. iPhone cameras never really satisfied my expectations when it came to clarity of the picture or focusing on the subject of the matter. I had tried phone cameras, film cameras, disposable cameras, it was up until Christmas of 2021 when I was given my first “professional” camera: a Canon T7 Rebel. Immediately after I received this gift, I taught myself how to use the camera. I haven’t even looked at the instructions to this day, which is mostly because of my stubborn “I can teach myself” attitude.

Since I received my camera, not only have I taken pictures of my friends, but I have also photographed a proposal, dance recital, birthday party and other family pictures. Although, I do admit that recently I have been MIA in trying to get out there, which has partly been problems with my health, working too much and just the overall stress of school. This summer I do hope to take my photography to the next level and have multiple potential “clients” for senior pictures. 

At the moment I don’t charge anybody for anything since I am still new and each experience is a learning experience for me. And this may be questioned because why would I not accept money if someone is willing to pay. My answer to that is that taking pictures for other people makes me happy, because they’re happy. One day I hope to be able to make this a possible side job and charge people. But like I said, I’m still learning. 

One of my favorite questions that I’ve been asked is advice from newer photographers. They’ll ask what camera I use, locations I go to, poses and advice for taking and editing the best possible photos. Although taking pictures for people is fun, I absolutely love it when people who have asked me what camera I have get that camera for themselves. Not only am I able to see the difference between their pictures on their Instagram feed of before and after they got their camera, but it really makes me realize that I’m a role model for other people and they enjoyed my work so much that they came to me for advice about it. 

Even if you have no idea how to work a camera, I suggest learning it as a potential skill. Especially when it comes to me wanting my own pictures, because then I have to teach whoever’s taking the picture how to focus the camera, where to look, how to adjust the lighting, and anything confusing. It sometimes can be frustrating when trying to learn because the camera can be stubborn with its flash or the picture isn’t coming out how you want it. But I promise you that with time and patience it is not a hard skill to learn. And you don’t have to have a big, fancy camera to be able to take beautiful pictures. Although the camera does help, it’s the photographer that calls the shots.