Focus On: Vanessa Louise
We’re back with another Focus On interview. This time we’re chatting to the incredibly talented photographer; Vanessa Louise. Being completely self-taught and only 26 years old she is a complete inspiration. If you love adorable babies, bright colours and general happiness, then you’re in a for a treat…enjoy!
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in photography.
I started almost immediately after leaving college. I first got a job in a TV and film casting agency working in the admin department for six months, then I became the main photographer in the studio. I worked there for about two years before leaving at 21 to start my own company.
I originally wanted to work in the fashion and editorial genre but quickly found out that it wasn’t for me, I then did a couple of weddings before settling into babies and toddlers.
How long have you been a photographer?
I’ve owned my own company for about 5 years now.
Did you study photography at college or are you self-taught?
No, I always knew photography was what I really enjoyed and what I wanted to do but I purposefully didn’t go to university. I think I’m just too stubborn-minded to thrive in that sort of environment! I’m basically completely self-taught other than the few workshops I attended with other photographers.
How would you describe your photographic style?
I would say my style is bright, fun and colourful.
What type of cameras do you shoot with?
The babies I photograph tend to be on the move all the time, so I like to use a Nikon D4 with a 24-70mm lens. I think if you’re photographing newborns then you can get away with a prime lens but after that short period of time, babies just want to go anywhere they can!
What’s your favourite editing tool?
I like to use Adobe camera raw within Adobe Bridge and Photoshop.
Where do you get your props from and how do you source them?
I mainly get my props from Etsy and companies overseas. A lot of mine come from America and Australia. In my opinion, once you’ve found one vendor you like, you’re in with quite a few. If you’re trying to research props etc then I would recommend looking at some other photographers as often they tag their suppliers.
What is the best part of your job?
It feels like fun!
What is the worst part of your job?
It never stops. My brain is always working away thinking of new ideas.
Do you make time for personal photographic work?
Not as much as I should to be honest, but I do take a lot of pictures of my dogs!
What advice do you have for any photographer just starting out?
Be persistent, be yourself and find your vision. Stick with your vision and don’t worry about what everyone else is doing.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Pretty much the same thing really. Just to stay focused and stay true to your vision.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be doing?
Definitely something creative. Maybe interior design.
Are you a Mac or PC lover?
Mac.
What talent would you most like to have?
Gymnastics or dance!
What are your top three favourite movies of all time?
Anchorman, Wayne’s World and Team America.
What do you love to indulge in?
American sitcoms!
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
California. I love the mix of city and beach life and how everyone is really laid back and outdoorsy.
First thing you would do if you won the lottery?
I would go on a lovely holiday, sit on a beach and work out exactly what I was going to do with the rest of the money. I’m quite business savvy so I would definitely want to invest some of it before choosing which Ferrari I was going to have!
For your business, what is the best thing on theimagefile?
The integration with the labs is great and really easy to use. I also love the client galleries. I think it’s really seamless and great for my customers.
To see more of Vanessa Louise check out her website. Also follow her on Facebook and Instagram!
