Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Tingley.
Hi Emily, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My photography journey began working with children, families, and newborns, which felt like a natural fit given my background in early childhood development and music teaching. Over the years, my business grew primarily through word of mouth, and I even ventured into weddings. But eventually, I realized that the work, while rewarding, had become repetitive and uninspiring.
During the pandemic, I experienced a shift in values and a desire for change, which led my family and me to move from California to East Nashville. That move completely reignited my passion for storytelling. Working at a local deli helped me connect with the community, and I discovered a deep love for capturing the stories of artists, musicians, songwriters, and other passionate creatives in this vibrant city.
Now, my focus is on highlighting people who have meaningful contributions to make the world a better place. I approach each session as a collaboration, creating images that reflect the individuality and passion of the person in front of my lens. This chapter of my photography journey feels fresh, exciting, and just the beginning, fueled by the energy and diversity of East Nashville.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t always been perfectly smooth, but each challenge has shaped me as an artist. I often wrestle with confidence in valuing my work, but those moments are teaching me how important it is to stand behind what I create. I care deeply about giving clients a meaningful experience, which sometimes leads me to go above and beyond. Over time, I’m learning that this dedication is a strength, as long as I also give myself the same care and boundaries I give to others. Those lessons are helping me grow not only as a photographer, but as a person.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a photographer based in East Nashville, inspired by the vibrant creative community that surrounds me. I specialize in capturing the essence of artists, musicians, songwriters, and other passionate creatives, though I also love working with high school seniors whose sessions often carry the same energy and style. My work is known for authentic, personalized portraits that highlight personality and passion, often through multiple looks and locations that showcase each client’s unique vibe. What I’m most proud of is the genuine connection I build with the people I photograph. I make it a priority to get to know them—whether over the phone or through a coffee meetup—so that our collaboration feels natural and meaningful. At the heart of my approach is a belief in relationship and storytelling. I want every client to feel seen, heard, and validated, which not only shapes the experience but makes each project distinct and deeply personal.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
If you’re just starting out in photography, the best place to begin is by finding what truly inspires you. Pay attention to the subjects, styles, and stories that excite you, because your passion will shine through in your work. Start simple with the gear you already have—you don’t need the most expensive equipment to create beautiful images. Give yourself room to experiment and make mistakes, since every frame teaches you something new. Stay curious and keep exploring different perspectives, angles, and lighting. Even if you primarily shoot digital, learning film photography can deepen your understanding of light and composition. And if your goal is to build a career, remember that photography is also a business. Developing skills in marketing and communication will help you connect with clients and share your vision in a way that grows alongside your art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emilytingley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emtingleyphoto
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emtingleyphoto
