Today we’d like to introduce you to Shawn Elisse.
Shawn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My interest in photography goes back as far as I can remember. I got gifted my first ever camera when I was around 15 years old, and that’s when I started taking pictures as a hobby. As the years went on, I gradually started upgrading cameras and taking my art more seriously. The first gig I ever got was around 18 years old. I shot for a local artist out here and that sparked my interest in concert photography. I did that for two years, then the lockdown happened and live concerts were put on pause. But during the lockdown, I finally came to the decision of quitting my job to focus on my art. I had a lot more time to really study my craft, challenge my mind, and elevate my creativity. Now, I’m putting my work out into the world and continuing to improve.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Of course, it hasn’t been. I remember after I bought my first professional camera, the laptop I used to edit my photos had broke. I was only 18 and had just spent all of my money on that camera, so replacing it wasn’t an option at the time. I had to take two six months gap periods where I couldn’t upload or edit any photos. When I was finally able to replace my laptop, I got back into the swing of things, then boom. Lockdown. I was like “Are you kidding me ?!”. But I couldn’t let that stop me. Instead of not being able to practice the style of photography that I had been doing, I started learning different styles of photography that I could DIY at home.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an Atlanta-based photographer. I specialize in concert photography but am currently dabbling in studio/portrait photography. I don’t have expensive, fancy equipment, but I am a creative. I make do with what I have, and I create beautiful photos. I capture beautiful moments, and my work shows for it. That’s what I’m most proud of.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking was a major problem area I had when I first started because I’m very introverted and social interactions weren’t my strong point. But what worked for me was having an amazing support system. I’d set my intentions, go out for what show I wanted to shoot and I always have my people with me to feel more comfortable. I made all of my connections organically that way.
Contact Info:
- Email: shawnephotography@gmail.com
- Website: https://shawnephotography.myportfolio.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shawnephotography?utm_medium=copy_link
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/saucemeupshawn?s=21
Image Credits
All photos were taken by me, but includes: Resin, The Orphan The Poet, Deal Casino
