We recently connected with Harley Trammell and have shared our conversation below.
Harley, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism comes from capturing true love and feeling through my lens. I have witnessed such beautiful memories over the years that I wouldn’t have had the chance to see if it wouldn’t have been for my love of photography. There is no better feelings than capturing genuine laughs and connection during my sessions.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a photographer based in Southeast Missouri. I specialize in weddings, maternity, and family photography. I love to capture raw feelings and emotions during your sessions. My goal is to create an experience for you to remember and have fun with while capturing you and your loved ones exactly how you are. I use my photography to tell a story. I have a love for nature and the outdoors which helps fuel creativity, activities and new locations to constantly explore and learn with my clients.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three skills or areas of knowledge that stand out to me are storytelling, client experience, and time management. Storytelling is so impactful because this is how you make your images stand out. My goal is to create images that people feel. Over the years, it has been hard not comparing yourself to other photographers because each individual person has their own idea of what “art” is. When you stop trying to compare yourself to another photographer because you admire their work, you can focus more on telling the narrative through composition, lighting, and emotion. This creates galleries that are personal and timeless. Client experience is so important. How your client feels from the initial inquiry all the way up to the finished product is how you create a special experience. I try to be laid back, understanding, and informative with my clients. I provide guides and styling assistance to prep for your session in order to create a stress free experience. During your session I want you to feel comfortable. Not every person feels comfortable doing every pose or wearing certain outfits. If your client feels uncomfortable, it will show. Time management for me is very important. I also have a full-time job in mental health and a family of my own. Balancing shoots, editing, and communication along with maintaining a personal life with your family can get tough. It is important to find a method that works best for you to avoid burn out and stay consistent. Remember, you are human too.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was creating a safe and loving environment for me to grow in. Not just in age, but in all aspects of life. Without them, I would not have the resilience, patience, or motivation that I do today. Because of them, I was able to witness real love and connection which is important in my photography career. Unfortunately, not everyone gets to experience this in their family life so if I can help you feel these emotions during their sessions, then I have achieved my goal. My parents did not just tell me to go after my goals – they showed me how by showing up every day, even when things were tough. They pushed through all lifestyles challenged with determination and positivity to give me a strong foundation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hot-photography.com
- Instagram: @hotphotoco
- Facebook: HOT Photography
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