Meet Shawn House

We recently connected with Shawn House and have shared our conversation below.

Shawn, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

Photography found me at the age of 11. I’ve had a camera in my hand ever since. I started by capturing candid moments of my family and friends, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Even then, I knew the power of photography to tell stories and evoke emotions.

As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to appreciate the deeper meaning of portrait photography. It’s not just about capturing a pretty picture – it’s about celebrating all life. It’s about documenting the passage of time, the changing faces of our loved ones, and the unique stories that each of us has to tell.

When I go through a person’s photo album, I’m transported back in time. I see the joy in their eyes, the love between them and their loved ones, and the challenges they’ve overcome. I’m reminded of the beauty and fragility of life, and the importance of cherishing every moment.

Photography is my passion. It’s how I connect with the world around me and share the stories of others. I’m grateful for the opportunity to use my camera to capture the precious moments of life and create lasting memories for my clients.

Recently, I launched my volunteer photography program, Senior Picture Day. This program allows me to partner with assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and hospice centers to create lasting memories for residents and their families.

I was inspired to start this program after losing my grandfather. I wanted to find a way to honor his memory and legacy, and I realized that I could do that by using my passion for photography to bring joy to others.

On Senior Picture Day, I visit assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and hospice centers to take portraits of residents. I also capture candid moments of them interacting with their loved ones. I then provide the residents and their families with high-quality digital copies of the photos.

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to give back to my community through Senior Picture Day. It’s a privilege to be able to use my photography skills to create lasting memories for these precious individuals.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Headshots and Branding Photography

I’m now specializing in headshots and branding photography for small businesses, brands, and nonprofits. I not only take the photos, but I also provide a social media plan to help you use your new images to grow your business.

Product Photography

Coming soon! I’ll be offering product photography services for businesses and brands. I can help you create high-quality stock images, social media photos, and other advertising materials.

Senior Picture Day

My volunteer program, Senior Picture Day, partners with assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and hospice centers to capture memories for residents and their families. These two-hour sessions are designed to celebrate life and create lasting memories. They can be themed around holidays, important events, or just for fun!

I believe this program is a valuable way to provide residents with a sense of dignity and self-worth while connecting them with their loved ones.

My So-Called Fabulous Podcast

My new podcast is a way for me to share my journey as an empty nester. It’s a place for laughter, pick-me-ups, advice, and more.

Coming Spring 2024

  • Photography Art for Purchase: I’ll be selling prints of my travel and everyday photography.
  • Picture Perfect Jewelry: I’m also a jewelry maker, and I’ll be selling my handmade pieces.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Top-Notch Customer Service

My background in customer service has helped me develop the skills needed to build strong relationships with my clients. I’m always responsive to their needs and go the extra mile to make sure they’re happy with my work.

Listening Skills

I understand that trust is essential in any client-photographer relationship. That’s why I take the time to listen to my clients’ needs and understand their vision for their photos. I then use my creativity and expertise to deliver results that exceed their expectations.

Relatable Personality

I’m proud to work with clients from all walks of life. I believe that everyone has a unique story to tell, and I’m passionate about capturing those stories in my photos. I share my own struggles and experiences with my clients so they can see that I’m a real person who understands what they’re going through.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I’m passionate about collaborating with other women of color to create and share content that inspires and empowers others. Here are a few things I’m hoping to do in the next few years:

  • Women of Color Creator Content Summit: A gathering of women of color creators to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and learn from each other.
  • Women of Color Photography Society: A community for women of color photographers to support and uplift each other, and to share their unique perspectives with the world.
  • Women of Color Creative Workshop: A space for women of color to explore their creativity and learn new skills in a supportive and inclusive environment.

I believe that when women of color come together, we can create something truly magical. I’m excited to work with other women of color to change the creative world, one project at a time.

Contact Info:

 

Image Credits
Daniel Fuchs – Image if me holding camera

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