Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Brickler.
Hi Justin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a Chattanooga-based Wedding and Elopement photographer. I have been photographing people from all walks of life for five years. My passion for photography is something that has grown over time. I began to take it seriously when friends would ask me to photograph key milestones in their lives (graduations, engagements, etc.)
I remember thinking to myself, “How seriously am I about this?” during the pandemic. After that moment of self-reflection I quickly realized that one’s gift will make room for them, so long as they invest in themself and are open to new possibilities.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One thing that I’ve learned is to embrace the fear of the unknown. The road has not always been easy because of self-doubt, comparing my work to other artists, and even procrastionI had to quickly learn that everyone has a different path to follow and there’s no such thing as an overnight success. Things have only improved for me over time because I didn’t quit pursuing my passion for photography (specifically wedding and portrait photography).
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in wedding and portrait photography. My obsession with travel has allowed me to work with clients in Tennessee, Oregon, Atlanta, Dallas and other wonderful destinations. I strive to photograph the lives of everyday people in an authentic and timeless way. My ability to connect with others has only catapulted me further towards achieving my goals and my version of success. Something that continues to set me apart from others is my ability to capture those in-between moments at weddings such as a grandmother wiping away her tears, a child’s laughter, or just a couple embracing one another away from the crowd just moments after saying, “I do.” Photography is a lifelong journey that allows me to showcase your story in an artistic and joyful way.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the COVID-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The COVID-19 pandemic reminded me that having strong faith, a strong friend group, and being adaptable to things will always serve you well–promoting survival even. The pandemic was something we never planned on facing, but I like to believe that it made me a better person.
Through it all, I was reminded that it is okay to slow down in life to enjoy the chapter that you’re currently in. Life before 2020 was rushed… whether it’s making a certain amount of money or securing the “perfect” job. Those things are irrelevant when you’re working from home because you can’t travel.
From a wedding photography standpoint, I believe it reminded people that a backyard wedding or eloping with a small group of friends/family is just as memorable as throwing a huge party with 150+ guests. It reminded us all that life is what you make it and that the small things matter just as much as the big things.
- Website: jbricklerphotography.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/justin_brickler
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jbricklerphotography
Image Credits
@Justin_brickler, @jbricklerphotography
