It wasn’t that long ago that I did a great online workshop with Melissa Koehler. In addition, I did a second workshop with her in person while I was in San Diego. Instead of going on a shoot with her, I asked her if she could shoot a few images of me and let me interview her. As hard as it is to have my picture taken, Melissa made me feel very at ease. We had a great time and I have to say that I have can’t wait to try out some new ideas that I have learned from her. I hope you enjoy this interview!
Do you remember taking your first image?
No, it was probably elementary or middle school.
When did you learn the basics of photography?
I did take classes in high school and learned on film, but I didn’t know I was going to become a photographer as a profession. I thought I would be a psychologist.
What first attracted you (specifically) to becoming a photographer?
I wanted better images to go along with my scrapbooking layouts. Before long, the photography was more interesting than the scrapbooking.
Who is your mentor in photography?
Audrey Woulard. At the time that I was turning to photography, I did an online mentorship with Audrey for a month. There was one phone conversation and the rest was online with assignments and critiques.
Which is easier for you: the technical or the creative?
The creative.
The technical is a lot easier now than in the beginning. You need to know the technical to be more creative and not fumble, so you can be free with your thoughts and your ideas.
Do you see yourself as an artist?
I feel that I am more of a life artist instead of a prop artist. I feel that I am better at creating an environment where the families or the kids can really be themselves, and then I can get the beauty from that. So, the short answer is yes, but maybe not an artist in everybody else’s sense. I can make people comfortable, but it took me awhile because I am shy. Having a camera makes me less shy around people.
Where are you in your development as a photographer?
I am always growing and continuing to learn. I never want to be complacent with where I am in that way, but as far as where my business goes, I’m where I want to be. I’m excited; it’s a great point in my life. When you’re first starting you think about how the business is going to be, and I’m here now. I’m excited to see what else is going to happen that I hadn’t dreamt about.
What is your favorite part of photography? Least favorite?
I enjoy shooting the most. Bookkeeping and taxes are my least favorite.
Where do you get your inspiration?
From magazines mostly. Tara Whitney in CA, Jinky Art, and, of course, Audrey Woulard inspire me. Sometimes I look through my old sessions to come up with new combinations for poses.
Who influences your photography the most?
Audrey Woulard.
How do you prepare for a shoot?
Sending out a questionnaire and a “What to Wear Guide.” I have poses in mind that I do more frequently, but I also try to do five new poses per shoot. Sometimes I sketch out new ideas with the stick figures and mention to my clients that I want to try something new.
What is your strength as a photographer?
Interacting with people and having fun with them.
What area do you want to work on as a photographer?
I would like to be more comfortable with mid-day lighting situations.
Do you shoot for yourself? When and what?
Not as much anymore, but it is a goal of mine this year. I am interested in going downtown and just shooting different colorful buildings. I had a chance to go to NYC with my husband I just shot from the hip, all the interesting buildings, and I just loved it!
What tip or trick did you learn that was the biggest help to you as a new photographer?
Shooting Manual and in RAW.
What is one mistake that you’ve learned from that you can share to help new photographers?
Be sure that you do your bookkeeping from the beginning and have the right licenses. It’s too overwhelming when you do start making money to go back and do it.
How would you say you transitioned from shooting well to making money?
It was a slow transition because you’re wondering, “Can I really do this? Can I really make money?” I just started practicing on my neighbors’ kids. I think it started when I had photographed my neighbors’ baby and had made their announcements. I had my name on the back, so when they sent them out, someone else contacted me. From there it was a chain reaction.
Why did you choose this particular image of yourself vs. another one for this interview?
My friend Masen took it of me. I am looking to the side, he made me laugh and I feel that it helps convey my personality a little bit just happy and having fun.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you do?
I am not sure what I’d do. Maybe just be a mom. I would probably go back to scrapbooking or jewelry making something artsy.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Australia! I’ve never been there, but it has been my dream to go there.
TIPS & TRICKS FOR NEW PHOTOGRAPHERS
Camera tip/trick:
Spot metering off the cheek of the person’s face. In back lighting situations, overexpose a little.
PS tip/trick:
Totally Rad Actions.
Marketing tip/trick:
Word-of-mouth and my referral program. Anytime anyone refers someone to me and they book a session, they get $50 studio credit.
GEAR
Camera: 5D and 5D Mark II
Lenses: 24-70mm 2.8, 70-200mm 2.8, 85mm 1.8, 50mm 1.2, 35mm 2.0, 100mm 2.8
Lighting equipment: 580 EX II and 580 EX and pocket wizards
PC/Mac: Mac
Software (Lightroom or ACR): Lightroom and sometimes ACR
Be sure to check out more more of Melissa’s work at:
www.melissakoehlerphotography.com
www.melissakoehlerblog.com
