Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanna Bailey.
Hi Shanna, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
If I’m being honest, I don’t remember when the passion for photography started, but I do know that when any camera would come out at any function, I would want to be able to look through the viewfinder. When I was little, my mother collected videos of me begging to see the other side of the video camera while she was recording me. The fascination with being able to capture any moment for the rest of time on film began earlier than most of my memories go back.
The one moment I know I was destined to do this forever was when I was in elementary school and got gifted a bright purple, digital Polaroid camera. I set up a makeshift studio in my parent’s basement, set up my best friend and her sister in front of the lens, and started taking portraits.
The love of capturing photos of the people I love never stopped. It continued through middle school, high school, and even college. I studied Photography and Intermedia Art and secured my Bachelor of Fine Art at Ball State University.
After graduation, I moved home for two weeks before making my way to Nashville, TN with little to no plan in mind other than I knew I wanted to move south. Here I am today!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s not always been sunshine and rainbows, but is anything worth a dime ever without a little struggle?
My biggest struggle has been, and more than likely always will be, burnout. After four years of studying photography in college, I was beyond done with picking up a camera. It wasn’t fun anymore. My heart wasn’t in it, and so I did what I knew was best for me and gave myself a break. I didn’t know how long it would last, or if I would ever pick a camera up again, but I knew it needed to happen or I’d be upset with myself.
Three years later, I picked it back up, and I haven’t put it down since. It’s an extension of me again, and I am so thankful for that.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a photographer, typically a portrait and lifestyle photographer. The main line I always use is that I love people. If it doesn’t involve people, more than likely that is not my wheelhouse.
I like to believe I have lots of things to be proud of. I’m proud of myself, of how far my work has come, how much I have improved in such a short amount of time, the way I continue relationships I cultivate in this industry, and how open I am to criticism and getting the chance to learn more.
If you have an idea, we will make it happen. One of the best things that came out of studying photography in college is that it was rooted in creativity and storylines. I want to help bring your ideas to life.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Let’s create together! Teamwork in a creative space is one of my favorite ways to work.
Follow me on socials, send me ideas, show me your work, let’s create magic together.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shannabaileyphotography.mypixieset.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannabaileyphoto/
