As I have mentioned before, I have five amazing photographers who are going to be mentors in Ultimate Intro to Photography. These ladies are extremely talented and I love learning from them. They breathe life into Click it Up a Notch with their tutorials and constantly inspire me.
Let me introduce Laurie Flickinger. Laurie and I first “met” in 2010 when we were both working on our first Project 365. We quickly became online friends and I looked forward to her beautiful images and encouraging each other on our photography journey. Laurie was one of the first contributors on our site. She is a sweet friend, wonderful photographer and a beautiful soul. So honored to have her on the team as one of the mentors.
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No.01Why did you start photography?
I started learning more about photography like most women…when I started having children. After paying a lot of money for a one year photo shoot, I thought to myself, “I can do that!”. Little did I know the work and perseverance it would take in order to deliver the images I was looking for!
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No.02What were your early goals for your photography?
My early goals were pretty arrogant! I wanted to be able to take my own children’s portraits for their milestones, instead of paying someone else for those portraits. My thoughts were that I would “save money”! Ha! I guess I didn’t realize the cost of cameras and lenses and classes and conferences. :) Only later did I realize how much more important the little moments in between meant to me. Those are the images that I am most proud of, not the posed portraits, but pictures of my kids being kids.
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No.03What surprised you the most about photography?
The amount of work and practice that go into really “mastering” the craft. After learning the technical aspects, there is so much more to the art of photography that I didn’t realize.
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No.04Your most embarrassing photography related moment.
Hmmmm…..This is a good example. Texture gone cray cray.
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No.05Please show us a photo from the beginning of your journey and one now.
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No.06What is your favorite picture right now?
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No.07What is your favorite part about photography
I have a few favorites. I love having quality images that document my life. I love
having something for me that challenges me and pushes me. And I love the community that diving into photography introduced me to. I have met some wonderful people that I consider good friends. Some of who I have met in person and some of who I feel like I have. <3
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No.08What one piece of advice would you give yourself when you were just starting out?
Be in the moment. At one point, I was so obsessed with photography that I found myself behind the camera more than in the moment. It’s important to allot a little time to get the “moment” on camera, and then put the camera down to enjoy the moments too. Don’t let photography consume you. Make sure you provide balance for yourself and your family.
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No.09What other photographers inspire you?
My photographer friends inspire me! We have been on this journey together and it is so much fun to see the growth that they have all made in the years we have been supporting each other. Just to name a few… Courtney Slazinik, Jennifer Bacher, Melissa Noste, Kelly Garvey, Liz B. We all began 365’s together and what a road it’s been! They have seen all of those images I’m no longer proud of!
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No.10What do you consider your biggest success as a photographer? Failure?
My biggest success? I would say completing two 365’s in a row! Those two years of daily images are priceless to me! Back up your files, ladies!
My biggest failure? Probably not providing balance. Allowing myself to become frustrated when the kids wouldn’t stay in the right light or give me a real smile…my photography style has changed to allow me to capture the moments without the frustration. That is something I am proud of.
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No.11Favorite place you’ve ever lived or visited?
I lived in Charleston, SC while my husband was in training to become a physician. It was my favorite place I’ve lived. I loved the ocean and the history of the town. I currently live in Georgia in a lake town, and it is a great
second best!Maui, Hawaii is by far the best place I’ve visited. I can’t wait to go back one day!
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No.12If you could go on a photography vacation and photograph anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Anywhere in Europe, Costa Rica, back to Maui, Tanzania, Egypt, I’m game for anywhere!
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No.133 words to describe you.
Loyal, authentic, Dr. Pepper Lover
Love the article. I so understand about “being in the moment”. The best advice
Loved reading this Laurie! You have inspired me for many years as well! I’m also so grateful for the road we traveled together. :> Loved how you said you can capture the moments without frustration now. What a relief for sure, and a goal for so many!
I LOVE this Laurie! I love all of these photos….even the texture one! Haha!
Oh Laurie! I love this! And man- we have come a long way! I’ve got so many of those texture ones too!
All these workshop students are going to adore you and your words of wisdom!!
I love this but im in the uk :_(
Hey Louise, It is a bummer about the EU VAT. I’m looking into it and hopefully can get registered and figure it all out :)
Great Article. I wish I had learn what I know now when my kids were little. Digital photography was just coming out when my last son was born. He is 11 now. I regret that I didn’t capture the moments of my other children the way I could do it now. At least I have the cheesy snapshots that have full flash. They are better than nothing. I will be ready for my grandkids!
Your photo comparison was amazing. I truly loved the light in the “now” photo.
You live in a GA lake town, eh? I do too… we should meet at the lake park sometime! ;D