My Journey Into Photography
Can you recall the moment you first felt that spark for photography? Was it when you first picked up a camera? For me, it all began in a small coastal town in California called Fortuna when I was 14. My parents gifted me a small Fuji point-and-shoot all-weather camera. The most exciting thing for me was the filters and the fact that it was waterproof! I carried that camera everywhere, capturing pictures of our adventures, flowers, and anything I found cool.
I enjoyed photography from the start, but it wasn’t until my freshman year of high school, when I took a photography class, that my interest really deepened. In that class, I was introduced to different types of photography, and I found myself particularly drawn to the conceptual photography of Cristina Otero. Her fruit self-portrait series was mind-blowing to young Cloee. I was inspired to see how I could create something unique that reflected my creative identity, even with my limited skills and camera capabilities.
During that first photography class, I was introduced to more professional cameras like Canon and Sony. However, at home, I only had my little Fuji camera, which I used for almost all of my projects. That changed when my parents surprised me with a Nikon D3300—my first professional camera. I was beyond excited. With this new tool, I felt creatively unstoppable. I gradually shifted from nature photography to portrait photography, realizing how much I loved creating my own little worlds. I took inspiration from art movements like Impressionism and Surrealism, other photographers, and the world around me.
As soon as I got my driver’s license at 16, I had the freedom to fully immerse myself in photography. I spent hours creating small sets at home, scouting locations, and making art whenever I could. Being a one-person production crew was time-consuming, but it was all part of the learning process.
My interest in photography grew, as did my hunger to learn and refine my skills. Although I’ve only taken a couple of photography classes and one workshop, I’m mainly a self-taught photographer, learning through trial and error. I wish I could say I studied in-depth on my own, but I’ve always been an "art for art’s sake" type of creative. Most of my learning happened behind the camera, shooting with friends who graciously let me practice on them.
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was working with natural light. I had to constantly monitor the weather, ensuring it wasn’t too cloudy or rainy. Another challenge, which persists even now, is comparing myself to others. I often second-guess my creative abilities, but it gets easier with time, especially when you start seeing the results of your hard work.
There were two defining moments when I realized I wanted to pursue photography seriously. The first was in 2019, during my sophomore year of college. I was shooting frequently, building a community of models and connecting with other photographers. I was also branding myself on Instagram, highlighting my work while juggling a full-time art history major, a full-time café job, and all the elements of my photoshoots—sets, styling, props, makeup, and more. It was overwhelming, and I eventually burned out. I "gave up" on elaborate shoots and only took self-portraits, as they allowed me to work on my own time with no hard deadlines.
I stayed in this burnout phase until recently when that spark came back to me. After moving to NYC with my partner for his medical career, I attended Brandi Nicole and Emily Teague’s first workshop in October 2023. Their workshop reignited my passion for photography. They helped me realize how much I truly loved photography and continue to support me today as friends and mentors. A fun side note: Emily and I both grew up in Chico, CA, and attended the same high school. She even guest lectured in my high school photography class.
Today, I’m still in love with conceptual photography, but now I work with a small team to help bring my visions to life. Certain elements from my early work have carried over, such as my use of color, movement, unique angles, and inspiration from art and life. However, I’ve now developed the skills to better execute my creative dreams. I’m learning more complex lighting techniques and utilizing a team to delegate tasks, so I can focus on creating the best photos possible and building a portfolio I’m truly proud of. I’ve also recently discovered an interest in product photography and am excited to explore this new avenue, which allows me to create small, imaginative worlds different from portrait photography.
For those just beginning their photography journey, my biggest tip is to experiment with different styles and genres. You won’t know what you like until you try it. I knew early on that family photos weren’t for me—I did them, but they didn’t spark my creativity. Everyone has their niche, and it’s important to find yours. I also recommend checking out your local thrift store for affordable fabric that can be used as backdrops or props.
Looking back over the past year and a half, it feels like a dream. I’ve met so many wonderful people who have inspired me and my journey. When I revisit my early work, I’m struck by the fun concepts and ideas I had, even if they weren’t mind-blowing at the time. I’m excited to revisit some of those ideas with the new skills I’ve developed. It’s beautiful to see where you started versus where you are now. I’m not a patient person and have always struggled with feeling content with my progress, but for the first time, I’m happy with the work I’ve been putting into this passion of mine. I hope this inspires you to start or continue your photography journey.