Life & Work with Miranda Musgrave

Today we’d like to introduce you to Miranda Musgrave.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m a 20-year-old photographer based in Nashville, Tennessee. I’m originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and I come from a house full of support and encouragement toward the arts. My mother was an incredible dancer, and my father played the piano remarkably well, so I always felt free to explore many artistic endeavors. I played the French horn, sang in the choir, and was involved in musical theater for many years.

Looking at each art from an objective standpoint helped me move forward in my career. I enjoyed the passion within music, the expression when acting, and the lighting design from the stage. When I first picked up a camera, everything seemed to click. I had the chance to create an environment where all my artistic interests made sense with one.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
From a young age, I remember my mom taking laps around our family events with a camera in hand, instructing my siblings and me to smile and quote, “look like you want to be here!” I think that my experience is widely popular, in that I was not amused by my mother’s excitement. As a kid, your focus isn’t exactly on photos and videos that your parents are so eager to take. But I believe we should spare them from our childlike judgment. They’re thrilled to see the incredibly intricate, talented, and intelligent person they’ve brought into a world that needs those kinds of people. When you’re behind the camera, you have the opportunity to see the beauty of the person who has enough courage to step in front of the lens.

I understand her excitement now that I’m in my mother’s position. Being a photographer allows you to notice the magic in the mannerisms, body language, expression, and silhouettes of each individual. I’m blessed to have been able to participate in this art for years, and though there are moments of difficulty, my progression has been eye-opening. Through my work, I have the privilege to try and fit a person’s numerous charming qualities in a singular frame. What a fantastic challenge.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a fashion, music, and portraiture photographer, with experience in videography as well. Primarily digital, my photos largely focus on people as my subjects, although I can never say no to a good pet portrait.

The studio and the stage are my main places of work, as I enjoy curating conceptual shoots, as well as capturing people in their most passionate state, on the most exposed platform. I’m attracted to photography that includes movement, as some moments in time are difficult to describe unless there’s a picture to prove it.

What were you like growing up?

Due to my dad’s job, my family moved around the US during my early childhood years. It seemed that newness was a constant in my life for a little while. With the help of welcoming communities in the different towns we lived in, I was able to feel comfortable figuring out how to navigate the unfamiliar. I think I’ll always strive to find a sense of community wherever I land. Luckily, I have found it here in Music City, too.

Nashville is growing rapidly in population, passion, and pink cowgirl hats. When I look around at the people who have lived here for years, I see their drive to build relationships with one another. The sense of community between different groups of people is inspiring, especially because of the booming tourism in our city.

Specifically, I see these connections emerge from a common interest in music. Country and bluegrass seem to be the most popular genres attached to Nashville. Although this may be the case, I am impressed by the jazz scene that seems to be gaining traction among Nashville natives. Having a deep love for music and people, I am right where I belong.

Contact Info:

• Website: studiomusgrave.com
• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/miranda.musgrave