Today we’d like to introduce you to Renee Vander Wal.
Renee, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I actually started as a registered nurse! I worked in the ER at a Chicago hospital and seven years ago we moved to the Atlanta area. I’ve always loved photography, but that’s when I picked up my camera and really started shooting. I have four children and like most people, did not want to miss a moment of their rapidly growing life! I wanted every moment frozen in time. Since my college degree was nothing to do with photography, I knew I had to put in a lot of work to get where I wanted to be as a photographer. I took a few online classes through clickin moms and then shot every day and edited every day. I am obsessed with light, without light there is no photography, so I studied light everywhere I went and how it affected my photos. That was three years ago and I still shoot nearly every day and find ways to push myself and grow in photography! I didn’t know if turning a passion for photography into a business would steal my joy in it, but the more I photograph clients, the more I love it!
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?
Photography is a creative expression, its art. It’s also very personal. I had to come to realize that my art is not for everyone, and that’s ok. I have to shoot and edit what I love and what is true to my style. It can also be dangerous to compare yourself to other photographers. I’ve learned to look at other peoples work as inspiration, but not let that discourage me where I’m at in my photography journey.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a wedding and family natural light photographer. I am obsessed with light and what sets me apart is how I use light to create the images I do. I am also all about authentic emotion! I will always do everything I can to create a real moment during a session! Oh- and if it’s not fun, it’s not worth doing! My clients always leave saying, oh man that was actually fun!
What were you like growing up?
I am a bit of a perfectionist and also very driven. Sports were a big part of my life growing up and taught me discipline and work ethic. I played soccer in college and as a college athlete, you have to work hard to balance sport and academics. Faith has always been the most important thing, even growing up, loving God and loving others has made me who I am today!
Contact Info:
- Email: Reneevanderwalphotography@gmail.com
- Website: Reneevanderwalphotography.com
- Instagram: Renee_vanderwal_photography
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/reneevanderwalphotography/
