Excited about our Have You Met series where I showcase YOU, the photographers of our community. We had over 400 photographers apply for the series in less than a week. I can’t wait to showcase the talented photographers. There is a mix of hobbyist and business owners as well as full-frame and crop sensor users. This may be my new favorite part of the site.
This post contains affiliate links. Thanks in advance for supporting Click it Up a Notch. I am no longer accepting applications for this series.
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No.01Tell us a little about yourself and your photography journey.
What is it about having babies and wanting to document EVERY moment of their lives? My journey started with my two daughters and continues to grow as they do. I now have the privilege of photographing families and this “work” is one of the greatest passions of my life. I quickly learned that lifestyle photography is what speaks to my heart. I find a balance between serving the needs of the families I photograph and keeping my creative side fulfilled. In the past year, I have broadened out and am teaching introductory photography classes to parents learning their cameras. This has brought me full circle and keeps me focused on why I started this incredible journey with photography!
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No.02What is the best advice you received so far on your photography journey?
Early on I was advised to nail images in camera to the best of my ability. I’ve learned to not rely on post processing since I’d rather spend less time on the computer and more time with my family (and catching up on Netflix shows!).
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No.03Where do you find your inspiration?
I’m inspired by emotion, connection and dreamy backlight. I often catch myself framing an image in my mind when I’m running errands. My husband finds watching movies with me pretty comical since I always have a comment about the light or composition in the scene.
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No.04What type of background do you have? Self taught? Formal training? Mentor?
A bit of a mix! I’ve been mentored by wonderful local photographers and have found an amazing community of supportive professionals. I’ve taken countless breakouts and classes through Clickin’ Moms. This year, I attended Click Away in San Antonio and took classes with some of my photography idols (*ahem* Elena Blair and Lisa Tichane). Plus countless hours reading, scouring websites and practicing my craft.
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No.05Are you currently doing any photography projects? If so, what?
I love “A Day in the Life” projects where I choose one day a month to document our daily details as a family. It’s less intense than other projects so I have fewer commitment issues, ha! I would love to attempt a 365 Project though, maybe 2016 is my year?
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No.06If you could only use one lens for a year, which would you choose?
Oh, that’s a tough one. I’d probably go with the 35mm since it’s the most versatile for lifestyle sessions. I’m in love with the wide angle and intimacy this lens creates!
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No.07Share links to 3 of your favorite photography tutorials and tell us why.
Everything you want to know about camera lenses: Part 4 Lenses on crop vs full frame sensors
I remember reading over this post several times before I transitioned to a full frame. Great example of how lens choice affects so much about an image.Sharp images with extremely shallow depth of field
Another oldie but goodie! Great points on learning depth of field and helping your subjects pop from the background.10 Tips for Photographing a Lifestyle Newborn Session
Lifestyle newborn sessions are some of my favorite to photograph. I love the workflow and suggestions in this article. I find #10 so true, because something amazing is bound to happen as soon as I look away for a moment! -
No.08What is your favorite image right now?
I’ve been exploring self portraits lately and trying to find more creative ways to get in the frame with my girls. I love this one because by the time I got in the shot, they had already devoured the lollipops I lured them there with! Typical, right?
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No.09What type of camera and lenses do you shoot with?
I shoot with a 5DMarkIII and alternate between my Canon lenses: 35 1.4, 85 1.8 and 24-70 2.8.
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No.10Let’s light someone else’s candle, who is a photographer you think we should check out?
I’d love for you to check out my talented friend, Heidi Calma Photography. We are opposites in many ways (she puts up with my bubbly, extroverted self!), but are both drawn to similar work and styles. She is a constant source of support, inspiration and self-esteem boosts!
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No.11What is your biggest challenge when it comes to photography?
The hardest part of photography is feeling the burden of “keeping up” on social media platforms. Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Periscope.. it’s so fun and inspiring, but can also be very overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in what everyone else is doing, but as artists we should be looking internally too. I try to pick and choose what’s important to me now and give myself grace with the rest.
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No.12How do you display your photos?
I am so excited to be ordering my first Miller’s album soon! I won a freebie at Click Away (thank you, Maggie Gross!). I love this wall gallery on our staircase since my daughters see it as soon as they come out of their bedrooms.
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No.13What is the strangest thing you carry in your camera bag?
The temps are dropping here in Virginia, so I have huge stash of tissues in my camera bag. I stuff more in before every session, so it’s getting kind of excessive now, haha. They are clean…mostly!
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No.14What is next on your list of things to learn this year in photography?
I have a secret wish to start learning film. I love powerful, grainy images and I miss the act of getting film developed. So much anticipation and excitement in going to pick them up as a kid.
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No.15If people want to follow more of your work where should they go?
You can follow my current work on my website, Erin Ammons Photography, Facebook Page, and Instagram as @erinammons. Thank you!
Erin…I love that you work to get the best image SOOC. That’s inspiring.