We are excited to bring you another post in our Photographer Interview series. I know when I was starting out, I really enjoyed learning about other photographers. Their style, their inspiration (their gear!)…in fact, I still do! So, without further ado, meet Alison Peck from Glow Portraits!
Describe your Style:
In all of the things I shoot, I would say my style is simple and soft. I lean towards muted tones and softer colors. Although I use props in every baby session; I try to keep the focus on the baby and not overwhelm the subject and see them as style pieces that complement the subject.
When photographing a maternity session I pay very careful attention to my light and how it falls off to show of that gorgeous baby bump.
What was your biggest “A-ha” moment?
Realizing that I don’t need to shoot everything and only photograph what I enjoy the most. I stopped taking groups, grads, commercial work and concentrated on babies and bellies and all of a sudden it was a weight that lifted and I really enjoyed going to work every day.
What is your education? Degree? Self-taught? Workshops?
I’m essentially self taught, with a nice mix of workshops and courses! I will always be on the lookout for workshops on newborn safety and editing techniques since these are always evolving and changing.
What made you decide to become a photographer?
When I became a mother and started to take a gazillion pictures of my own children I realized that other parents would enjoy images of their child that they wouldn’t be able to capture themselves.
How long have you had your Photography Business?
6 years already!
What would be the hardest part of having a photography business?
I’m a mom with 4 children, my oldest is special needs. Balancing the needs of my family, with the business of being a photographer, is a constant challenge. I know that I’m not unique in this though, I’m sure many of your readers can relate to this dilemma!
What would be your favorite part?
There is simply nothing better than snuggling a sweet new baby – they are such amazing blessings! I have utmost patience with newborns and spending a few hours with them makes my day. Babies will always be special to me. They change so quickly in those days, capturing those fleeting moments is heart warming.
I also simply adore working with expecting mamas. It brings back memories of my time there, the fears, joys, and anticipations. Behind the lens I am able to capture those rare feelings and emotions; and share those special moments with others.
I choose photographers for these interviews because their work inspires me and gets my creative juices flowing, hence the interview. What gives you ideas and inspires you to create such amazing imagery?
Many things in everyday life are inspiring . . .I will notice a palate of colors and imagine how they could be incorporated into a newborn session or maternity session. Other photographers
of course, yourself (brown nosing here;) , Shellie Secretan, Caralee Case . . .
What has been your most memorable shoot & why?
I was documenting a birth at our local hospital. The baby arrived and the doctor turned to me and asked me if i wanted to cut the cord! It was surreal, an incredible moment and i will always
treasure and remember this amazing event.
When you aren’t doing photography how do you escape & unwind?
I spend time with the kids and hubby, we love to camp and boat. I also work out and run (kinda of)
How do you create balance between your Business Life & family Time?
My New Years resolution was to work in studio and then edit a set amount of hours and then devote time to my family. Helping to preserve memories for others through my photography is an incredible blessing however building memories for my four children is the most important priority to me.
What do you wish you had known prior to starting your own photography business? Is there anything you would have done differently in your photographic career?
I had no idea how expensive running a photography business would be. To be successful you must continuously upgrade your equipment, safety workshops, props etc -in order to please your consumers and meet their expectations.
Whats Your Gear?
Canon 5D Mark II (with the Mark III pre ordered :D), 50D backup camera, few main lenses, alien bees lights,
What is your go to lens & Why?
50 1.4 – its fast, sharp and light
Something you’re still learning?
… I am constantly learning! I would like to learn more about macro, I haven’t had the time to dedicate to learn about that amazing part of photography. And newborn safety, its always something to stay current with.
If you could have lunch with anyone famous living or deceased who would it be & why?
My mom. She’s battling cancer and I live so far away . . . I’d be with her in a heartbeat to have the opportunity to take her for lunch 🙂 She’s not famous but she’s amazing!
RAW or Jpeg? raw
Nikon or Canon? canon
Mac or PC? PC
Lightoom or Photoshop ( or both ?) PS but trying to figure out LR
Favorite TV Show? i don’t have time!
Favorite Color? Blue
Favorite Food? Does ketchup chips count as food?
Which 5 words would your friends best describe you?
Gifted, creative, caring, focused and passionate
Ok dear reader…now it’s time to get interactive!
In the comments below share with us one (or all!) of the following (because sharing is caring…and we all benefit from it!)
1. What was your biggest “a-ha” moment?
2. Where do you find your inspiration?
3. (we’ll give you an easy one…) What is your go-to lens?
Want to see more of Alison’s work? Find her on facebook and check out her website here.
