« the courage to just be | Main | so happy to have around »
Sunday
May232010

capturing life

DateSunday, May 23, 2010 at 03:10PM

now to introduce you to our third judge, a photographer and military spouse, currently based out of virginia beach -- stephanie beaty, who not only inspires us as photographers, but also as people.

it is evident that stephanie gives unselfishly to her photography and in life, with projects such as the give ten project and her loving tribute to her great grandmother, which still brings us tears each time we see it (scroll down in stephanie's portfolio, to view the tribute).   it is just so obvious how huge her heart is! 

stephanie's photography is beautiful, natural and without a doubt heartfelt. she has this incredible ability to connect with her clients and capture their honest connections amongst one another.

we'd like to say a special thanks to stephanie, who sent us the answers below just days before her husband left for a seven-month deployment aboard the USS truman.

what inspires you in photography?

How about a bulleted list? I live by those:

  • The amazing women I have met and friendships I have gained as a result. There's something special about relationships that are sparked by an interest in the arts. They are interesting, quirky, sometimes unlikely and always enduring.
  • I'm inspired by the medium itself, the study of light and the endless possibilities of reinventing your work over and over again. Every time you push the shutter, it's as though you've created a gift for yourself + the subject. I still can't shake the excitement of seeing an image for the first time.
  • That for me, it is a process and not a profession. It's a very personal journey I've embarked on and don't expect to reach the end until my eyes fail me.
  • My children. They have taught me how to see anew and look at the world with childlike wonder again. It's a gift I am eternally grateful for.

     

    who is your all-time favorite photographer and what draws you to their work?
    Dorthea Lange for her honest portraiture, and uncanny ability to capture connection and soul; Arbus for her rebellion and for taking time to truly see people others overlooked; James Nachthwey for his indescribable body of work. Among modern childrens' photographers, I have always adored Barb Uil/Jinky -- her work is original, creative and magical. More than anything, I admire originality and heart in an artist's work. She infuses both.

    we talk about the roller coaster ride in this photography journey, aka funks. is there anything you do to get through the more challenging times?
    There have been many highs and lows. My theory is, if I'm not experiencing them, then I'm being too complacent. Usually, if I'm in a down period, the root is outside circumstances or a lack of balance in my life. Thankfully, my job as a photographer isn't the primary income source for my family. I'm not afraid to put the camera down and walk away for a bit. It's hard to do, but sometimes I need to pursue other interests, stop thinking about business or just enjoy my family a bit more. When I come back, I am inevitably renewed and refreshed. 

    we know your husband is about ready to deploy for seven (or more months) and you have two young children and one more on the way, who will born while your husband is away. how do you do it; where do you find the strength?
    My faith is central to how I endure all of life's challenges large and small. I can do nothing on my own, especially undertaking the hardships that a military family endures. "I lift up my eyes to the hills— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1-2. I'm also blessed to be surrounded by an amazing church community and dear friends + family -- even though they are not nearby. For my life, as well as photography, is about relationship and connection.

    any advice you would like to share with those just starting out in this business?

  • Wait. If you think you're ready, give yourself a bit more time. So much can change in a mere 6 months. You'll be better for it.
  • Find out who you are before launching an official business. If you have to look at other photographers' work for your session ideas or their web sites for branding ideas, wait. You're not ready yet. This can take a long time. But that's okay. You'll shine when you debut--and it will be obvious you've done things well.
  • You owe it to yourself to learn the technical aspects of photography backwards and forwards--I'm still learning these and have years ahead of me. They are the foundation. Your creative eye is just the icing.
  • Don't give up. If you are truly passionate about photography, do it for yourself and don't be discouraged.
  • Seek balance in all that you do and put your family first no matter what. The initial excitement can be consuming, but you need your family most of all. They will be your greatest cheerleaders and support in this journey.

     

    can you please share a few of your favorite photographs with us?

    • Comment2 Comments |

    Reader Comments (2)

    That was a really enjoyable interview! Stephanie's work is inspring, and so is her faith! Thanks for sharing this wonderful interview!

    May 27, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterBrandon Price

    Beautiful work Stephanie! Great interview

    June 28, 2010 | Unregistered CommenterTamara

    PostPost a New Comment

    Enter your information below to add a new comment.

    My response is on my own website »
    Author Email (optional):
    Author URL (optional):
    Post:
     
    Some HTML allowed: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <code> <em> <i> <strike> <strong>

    Notify me of follow-up comments via email.