Check Out Lydia Thomas’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lydia Thomas.

Hi Lydia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Thanks so much for interviewing me!

I never set out to be a photographer or a model. I always wanted to be a pilot. My brother became a photographer and videographer and he was always vlogging my sisters and I. I got used to being around cameras, in front and behind. Next thing I knew someone was asking me to take their senior photos, then a wedding, then a concert. Now, here I am and it’s only the beginning. Photography isn’t my only goal either. I want to be a journalist. I want to travel and take photos for magazines and write too. I am putting myself through school in pursuit of this goal. I will have my Associate’s in December. I am the only one out of all my four siblings to pursue a degree. We are all artists and creatives and we are all successful in our own ways. My siblings are my biggest supporters and inspiration. They remind me that there are infinite ways to live life in a fulfilling way.

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?
When it comes to my journey with photography I consider myself extremely lucky. It’s the same with modeling. Life has been rough in so many ways, but photography is an escape. It helps me understand people better and display how I see the world. Since I arrived in the photography world with zero expectations there was nothing for me to be disappointed by. The rest of my life often gets in the way and slows me down, but I can always pick up a camera and keep going. As an artist of any kind, the biggest struggle is getting through the quagmire of your own mind. The loudest voice telling you you’re not good enough always comes from within. I struggle with serious imposter syndrome a lot of the time. Honestly though, I’m stubborn and I’m always working to earn my own approval. I try to remind myself that there is no room I do not belong in if I made it there in the first place.
I could go on and on about all the unfortunate things that have happened to me or gotten in my way, but I made it through all of those things so they can’t be that important.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
One of my clients once told me that my photos look like they are breathing. That is the best compliment I’ve received on my work, because it means I am achieving my goal. I prefer to photograph people. I try to capture them in a raw way that makes them see how beautiful they truly are. My favorite form of photography is street photography. It is fascinating to me, the act of capturing a stranger. Most of my favorite photos I have taken are street photos.
One of the ways I try to stand out is by pursuing both photography and modeling. It comes in handy more than you’d think. Modeling helps me understand what it feels like to be on the other side of the lens and better empathize with my clients.
I used to have severe social anxiety. Once I got into photography I realized that it is very hard to be shy and a photographer, much less a model. I am most proud of myself for overcoming my fears and pursuing it anyway. Now I meet new people all the time. I met my best friend through photography. It has made my life far more interesting and exciting, and the people I have met alone made everything worth it.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
It’s going to sound cliche but social media makes the photography world go round. Especially if you are freelancing, word of mouth and exposure really do go a long way. I have made many connections and friends that way. Nashville has a huge creative community, once you know ten people you know fifty, and so on. Some photographers gatekeep things and don’t want to teach others their skills, but most of us will not shut up about photography if you get us going. Take advantage of the hospitality culture here in the south and go meet people! It’s really that simple. Of course, you have to be careful both in person and on social media. I am a 20-year-old female so I do usually have my guard up, but I have been really lucky so far. Most people want to help you, and if they don’t you just move on.
I don’t really have a specific mentor when it comes to photography. I owe much of my knowledge and skills to a lot of people teaching me small things here and there. Never take that for granted, it adds up. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the kindness and patience of so many talented people taking the time to explain how to do things better. Also, ask questions!

Pricing:

• My pricing is dependent on the type of shoot required.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: lydianoelle.com
• Instagram: lydia.thomas