Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia McCorkle.
Hi Mia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have always loved photography but didn’t pursue it as a profession until later in life. When my son Jay was born, I needed the flexibility of a career that allowed me to be a full-time Mom and provide for him.
I started photographing friends, family and neighbors as well as taking classes at the Atlanta school of photography for formalized training in the basics of camera operation, lighting and digital processing. Although I had formal training in college on the basics of camera operation and photography, digital was a new platform to learn.
At the time I was working for a real estate broker and started using my photo skills for photographing properties and preparing marketing materials for the brokerage. My work was well received and real estate photography is still a big part of what I do. In addition, I assisted other professional photographers to learn everything I could about photo composition, lighting, technique, and the applicable use of the various equipment. I have always enjoyed a variety of subjects including weddings, product photography, and headshots for business, acting and modeling.
As a young woman, I was a model and was on the receiving end of many great photographers and I understand what it takes to make a great photograph. Posing and lighting in addition to creating a relaxing environment and making the subject feel comfortable.
The business of making a living in photography is much different than the creative aspects of taking a good picture. It takes education, sacrifice and thousands of hours of shooting, editing, and hard work, not to mention the expense of quality equipment. I had to learn how to take photos and enjoy what I am doing as well as make enough money to support myself. It has not been easy.
I studied photography. I was working for a real estate broker and started doing real estate photography, at the same time family photo sessions and magazine work. I always got great feedback. I had also started to assist professional photographers and learned everything I could regarding lighting, gear, equipment, and the photography business. All at the same time photographed everything I could to perfect and learn my craft.
In the beginning, not all my jobs were paying jobs and on the days I didn’t have one I would shoot for free just for the practice hours. I developed friendships with other photographers, camera rental store employees, and former teachers. Many clients have become friends. Photography has opened up a world to me that my other jobs never could. I aimed high and wanted to photograph the most beautiful products and places in the world, the auction gallery and antique store I worked for gave me an opportunity to photograph stunning jewelry, fine art, and antiques from all over the world, all amazing to see and photograph and was exciting. The luxury realty company enabled me to visit and stay at amazing properties. I worked for a vacation rental company as well as saw the most incredible places.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest struggle with my photography career has been balancing the unpredictability of scheduling photo shoots and the responsibilities of being a Mom. My son will always be my number one priority and that causes issues with scheduling and time management. Being available on weekends, nights and holidays for photography has affected personal relationships and friendships at times.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I photograph people, places and things. I provide lifestyle, business, and acting headshots as well as product and commercial and residential photography. I don’t specialize in one thing. I am most proud of my recent work for The Warrior Alliance. They help service men and women transition from military to civilian life. Another great session was with the actor Lou Gossett Jr., he was warm and welcoming and easy to shoot. To be honest the photos I am most proud of are taken with my cell phone of my son when he is goofing around, they bring me the most joy.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Quitting my job and becoming a full-time photographer as my only source of income is a big risk. I had to learn to manage my stress and fears. I had to hide my fears behind a smile and put on an air of confidence and professionalism. I have learned that I am stronger than I thought I was. I have sacrificed many things to get to where I am today in my career. I thought I was at the pinnacle of my career when I was invited to the Oscars. Two weeks after I returned Covid hit and the phone stopped ringing….for a full year. Slowly I had to start to build back up again. I has not been easy but worth it because I can do what I love to do.
Contact Info:
- Email: mialiquori@gmail.com
- Website: www.focalpointatlanta.com
- Instagram: miamccorkle atlanta photographer
- Facebook: Focal Point Atlanta
Image credit:
Rob Brinson
