This week we’re shining a light on ambassador Leigh Ann Atwell of Leigh Ann Atwell Photography. Read on to find out more about Leigh Ann, see some of her work, and find out which bluebird chic strap is her personal favorite!
I started my professional photography business in 2012, since then I’ve been published internationally, won awards and mentored countless other photographers. My clients describe me as patient, fun and laid back. Now that the formal facts are out of the way, let me tell you more about me. I’m a mother to Gracie and Ryder. I have an amazing fiance, David, that came into my life just at the right time and brought my bonus daughter, Shelby, with him. Things that make me fall even harder in love with the world around me: sunsets (cliche but true!), watching children explore, seeing new love develop, sweets (give me all the chocolate. No, seriously.. All of it) and pretending I’m very organized with my planner and schedules. Visit me at: http://www.leighannatwell.com/
How long have you been a photographer?
I am in my sixth year (2nd full time!) as a professional portrait photographer.
What made you decide to pursue photography?
As a child, I had an aunt who always had her camera out. She brought it to ALL the family get-togethers. She still does to this day. Her passion and creative eye (plus encouraging words) prompted me to try my hand at it at sixteen years old. Turns out, I also share that creative eye and same passion.
What is the best part of being a photographer?
The reaction to a client seeing their images for the first time. That, tear-filled eyes, tiny gasp and huge smile.
How has your photography evolved over the years?
Oh wow, in so many minute ways, and so many huge steps! I’ve grown from a “sit here, just like this and smile at me” photographer, to a photographer that knows how to bring out genuine emotions and reactions from my families. I learned fairly quickly that being a Professional Photographer does not mean I shoot pictures and deliver them, rather I am a Photographer, psychologist, marketer, social media manager, entrepreneur and businesswoman all rolled into one.
What advice do you have for other women who are thinking of starting their own businesses?
DO IT. It is single-handedly the hardest and most frustrating, yet freeing and rewarding thing I have EVER done. It has completely changed who I am on a deep level. You will not regret it.
What impact do you want your business to have on others?
I want to foster self-love among my female clients. I want to bring forth that emotion that parents have when they look at their children. I want to capture all of that for them and help them preserve their memories.
Which of your business achievements are you most proud of and why?
I have been published, both locally and internationally. I have won awards. All of those are amazing in themselves. My favorite though, has to be when I walk in my clients homes and I see my work hanging on their walls. These precious items will be passed down from generation to generation. Never tossed aside or forgotten. To me, that is absolutely remarkable.
What type of camera do you own, and what role does it play in your life?
I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark III and a Canon 6D. They are my lifeline to sanity (or maybe insanity, it’s yet to be discovered which!)
What’s your favorite thing about your bluebird chic strap?
I received my In Stitches Teal strap from Bluebird Chic and instantly fell in love! The quality and craftsmanship is amazing. I love how every detail has been given attention, right down to the tiny charm! I also have to mention the length. Typically scarf camera straps are meant to be worn around the neck, and that’s it, no leeway. This strap has an extra bit of length that enables me to wear my camera cross-body, which is basically essential when you’re photographing small children.
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Leigh Ann’s ambassador pick, the all-new In Stitches Teal, is now available in our shops!
[ click here to shop this style ]
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Thanks for sharing with us today Leigh Ann and for supporting the bluebird chic brand!
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