BRI Featured Artist
Dawn Shields
How long have you been shooting pro?
8 years
Describe your education & training in photography.
My training was hands-on learning and getting an education from those I admired most, including Bambi Cantrell and Yervant.
What challenges did you face early in your career?
A lack of knowledge about everything including running a business. Learning the photography aspect was a passion and I loved every second; It came very naturally. As far as learning the business, that was more of a task for me. I'm thankful that marketing concepts came pretty easy for me because the rest of the business was a learning process for sure.
What is your secret to balancing your
photography business and your personal life?
The number one thing is your family comes first. Keep a schedule that works for your family and stick to it as much as you possible. I always keep it in perspective by thinking: in my last days, I want to be surrounded by those I love…not a camera!
Define your photography style.
I developed my style by shooting a lot. I had a very natural sense for composition but had to learn about using better lighting techniques for different body types and situations.
What inspires you artistically (a person, place, movie,
you name it!)?
Everything that touches a sensory point can be inspiring to me. Music is huge and also music videos I find to be inspiring; the cinematography is beautiful!
When going into a session, what motivates you?
The desire to please my client is always my first motivator. I want them to fall in love with each moment we captured. After that I really want to please myself and watch my art grow and transform each time I use my camera.
When working with your clients, how do you evoke the
perfect expression
and pose?
I'm just real with them. I talk and connect on a personal level. I basically become a friend who happens to be taking a picture of them; this works great for capturing them for who they are.
What business tip would you give the new photographer?
Get an education through training with other photographers who you admire, find out if they are known for being good educators before making a big financial investment. Just because someone takes great images does not make them a great communicator or educator. If you find the right person it really can take 5 years off your professional learning curve.