Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Bradley.
Hi Shannon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always had an eye for photography. Ever since I was old enough to hold a camera, I was snapping pictures of anything and everything! My family traveled a lot when I was younger and it was pretty much expected that I would be the one capturing the whole adventure.
With my hobby quickly turning into a deeper passion, my parents surprised me one Christmas with my very first DSLR starter camera kit. I remember that being such a huge turning point, in both my love for photography and the growth of my skill set!
The more comfortable I got giving directions and managing my camera settings in different lighting situations, the more I started taking on photo sessions for friends and family. This was definitely when everything started to evolve and ultimately turned into the photography business I have today!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I don’t think any journey, especially that of building a business from the ground up, is ever a completely smooth road (and if anyone says otherwise, I’d like to know their secret!). That being said, I have come to appreciate the difficult times.
Through all those mild disasters – like forgetting to format my SD card and running out of storage space in the middle of a surprise proposal, for example – I have always come out stronger on the other side. Without the difficult times, I wouldn’t have learned how to think quickly on my feet and solve the problems that come my way. Another struggle that I still face often, is having to explain why I chose a more “unstable” career path.
I used to get very discouraged, feeling like I had to justify why I chose to be a photographer to people whose opinions didn’t even hold that much weight. I’ve learned that it is not up to them to understand and if I’m happy, that is all that matters.
I’m one of the lucky ones who has full support from family and friends and knowing that has made it easier to be confident in my choice to be a photographer.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Although I love many different types of photography, my niche is in couple’s, maternity, and lifestyle portraits. I think bringing out the personalities of people in their photos is what makes having that memory so great! I go into photoshoots with the mindset to serve.
Taking photos is not about me getting content for my portfolio or trying to get a pretty picture for social media. Taking photos is about capturing a moment for my clients. Photoshoots are not only about the end result but also about creating an enjoyable, fun experience that they will remember every time they look back at those pictures. I think this is what ultimately sets me apart in a world that can get very competitive.
I also edit vibrant and true to color, knowing that the photos I deliver to a client will be evergreen since I am not following a current editing trend. I am most proud of staying true to myself and always being eager to learn and grow more in this industry.
What do you think about luck?
I’m not sure if luck has had as much of a role to play in my life and business, so much as putting myself in positions that will help me get to where I want to be.
I realize the power of communicating, making connections, helping my peers without expecting anything in return, and taking risks when they are necessary for growth.
Contact Info:
- Email: shanbradleyphotography@gmail.com
- Website: shanbradleyphotography.com
- Instagram: @shanbradleyphoto
- Facebook: @shanbradleyphotography
