Art & Life with Barbara Rouse

Today we’d like to introduce you to Barbara Rouse.

Barbara, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
We all see the story in front of the camera that is carefully crafted by the artistic eye of the photographer and the beauty of the model. What we don’t often think about is the story behind the camera and that story is my story. My love of photography began as a teenager when I took possession of my sister’s Polaroid instant camera. That camera became a part of me and through this extension of myself, I was able to capture the memories of my family and friends, which included special events, travel, and everyday life. I didn’t realize how important it was until many years later when the two babies who lived next door became young adults. Their older sister told me that the girls were sad because there weren’t any baby photos of them. I boxed up all of the photos that I had taken of them growing up and mailed the photos to them. They were so grateful, and I was elated to be the one who had captured their childhood memories.

Although a native of South Carolina, my careers and travels have taken me all over the world. Along the way, I have always taken my love for photography with me. From recording my times in Japan while in the military to capture the adventurous childhood of my only son. Through photography, I’ve been able to bring joy into the lives of family and friends, as well as making connections with strangers and it has also allowed me to memorialize important moments in my own life. In addition to capturing the joyous moments of life, my photos have been instrumental in bringing comfort to families during times of grief. Life’s ups and downs occur without warning, but through photography, I have learned to cherish the smallest moments.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
The transition to a professional photographer was an easy transition for me since I had already been taking photos from my youth. I currently do not specialize in any one aspect of photography. Though events are my favorite thing to shoot, I shoot pretty much any and everything. What I create is not only images that will last a lifetime, I also create an enjoyable photographic experience. Many times, I get clients who say I don’t like taking photos or I’m not very photogenic. With the help of my assistant, we create an atmosphere of enjoyable laughter and fun. There is a tremendous difference in the outcome of a photo when the person is comfortable and relaxed vs not wanting to be there. I want for people to look back on the photos that I have given them in the days, months and years to come and say to themselves, “I remember that day.”

What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
My role as an artist has not changed with the current world events. From my early beginnings until now, it is still my desire to provide all those around me with the memories that will last them a lifetime. The local, national, and international events give me another avenue to pursue when looking for things to photograph. I do enjoy attending local and national events because I am constantly seeking to capture those critical moments in history. I aspire to share my side of the story through my photography.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
My work can be viewed on my website at www.barbrousephotography.com. My work can also be seen and purchased on www.society6.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.barbrousephotography.com
• Phone: (404) 729-1790
• Email: barbrouse@gmail.com
• Other: www.society6.com/barbararouse

Image Credit:
Barbara Rouse Photography

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