Today we’d like to introduce you to Susan Prieto.
Susan, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I was a child, my mother gave me my first Instamatic camera with “film” and I was HOOKED! I loved taking “candid” shots of people, much to the chagrin of my family. From the instamatic, I graduated to 35mm film with a Pentax K1000 which got me learning more about camera settings, effects, aperture, etc. I have used all kinds of film cameras but when I discovered the DSLRs it was the most exciting and challenging kind of photo equipment. I am an artist also and my photos tend to show that “creative” side of myself. Life took me to Florida for 5 years and during my time there I was mentored in the functions of DSLR photography, specifically Panasonic DMC series and the Sony A700 DSLR. I did a lot of special events with this mentor, weddings, birthdays, baptisms, etc. and then I ended up back in Georgia where my adult children live.
Loving this “Craft” and the passion I have for it I could not stop taking photos. I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work two seasons as a School Photographer and that is where I got more in-depth into “Studio Photography”. I invested in a more up-to-date professional camera, Sony A500 with Live View, purchased studio lights and background drops, and advertising magnets for my car. I am constantly seeking individuals to model “Prints for Time” to expand my portfolio, even created a Facebook Business Page to promote my work. To get more “exposure” (no pun intended) I am actively entering several Photo Contests each week and have some great results. I do my photography to bring joy to others to be able to “Capture” that “Once in a Lifetime Moment” to be forever remembered.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
This path that I have chosen has not been a smooth one at all. There were some very difficult decisions, choices, that I had to make along this way. When I was in Florida my mentor was going through some very bad situations and in the midst of that sold both of the cameras we used to do the events there.
I had to part ways with this person and figure out what to do next. I was stranded in Florida but my father drove over 800 miles to bring me back to Georgia to be closer to my adult children and to just “regroup”. It was during that 3 years that I slowly saved the money to do the one thing that truly brings me joy, Photography! Once I had that camera I knew “someday” I was going to be successful at it again. I am still in the marketing and getting “noticed” phase and I am learning patience in that endeavor. It will be worth all the struggles in the long term. My goal is to retire making other people smile while capturing the beauty of all that is around us.
Memories in the Moment Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I carry my camera with me EVERYWHERE just on the “chance” “something” will “catch my eye. My business is one of “bringing joy” to other people. I especially love taking macro photos and landscape scenes. I am best known for “Creative Eye”, getting a shot from a “not typical” angle or “seeing” what is “missed” in a scene and capturing it. I am most proud of the fact that I am always looking to improve my skills and share them with others. What sets me apart? I am not doing my photography business for me. I am doing my photography to bring joy and a big smile to those I take pictures of, and if I make a little bit of money at it, that’s just a plus. I thank God, every day for the gift HE has blessed me with and sharing it with others is my way of saying “Thank You”.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success for me personally is having a customer elated over the product that I present them within photos. If I have customers who are happy then I have done a good job! As I get more exposure with the contests I am entering and the recognition I am receiving from other photographers around the world this is just great confirmation that I am on the “right path”. I am looking for that “first wedding” or “special occasion” and subsequent clients that may result from those occasions.
Pricing:
- Sitting Fee $35-$45 1-2hour session all photos on Photo DVD
- Special events vary from $50 – $75 per hour (1/2 of Total paid in advance)
- On-Site of Your choice available $10 travel fee
Contact Info:
- Address: 2250 Hampton Trl SE
Conyers GA 30013 - Phone: 770-334-7709
- Email: craftysue2250@gmail.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/craftysuesphotography
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
