Meet Tamara Susa

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tamara Susa. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tamara below.

Tamara, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
As a photographer, I find that keeping my creativity alive is essential for delivering fresh and captivating visuals. Living in a small mountain town, the key is to constantly seek inspiration from my surroundings. I challenge myself to explore new perspectives, experiment with different angles, and find unique ways of documenting the beauty that surrounds me.

In a close-knit community, it’s easy to fall into routines, so I make a conscious effort to break away from the familiar and discover hidden gems that might have gone unnoticed. This constant exploration not only keeps my work dynamic but also allows me to showcase the diverse facets of Aspen and its surroundings.

Staying current with the work of other artists, particularly photographers I admire, is another crucial aspect of my creative process. The exchange of ideas and exposure to different styles fuel my own imagination. It’s fascinating to see how others interpret the world through their lenses, and it motivates me to push my boundaries and evolve as an artist.

In essence, my creativity thrives on a combination of curiosity, exploration, and staying connected with the broader artistic community. By embracing new challenges and finding inspiration in the work of my peers, I ensure that each photograph I capture tells a unique story and reflects the ever-changing tapestry of our mountain town.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a passionate photographer and filmmaker based in Aspen, Colorado, deeply immersed in the art of capturing moments and telling stories through my lens. My focus is on bringing to life the unique charm of our small mountain town and the breathtaking landscapes that surround it.

What excites me the most about my work is the opportunity to document the essence of our community, the changing seasons, and the nuances of daily life in the mountains. Living in such a picturesque environment, every day is a new canvas, offering endless possibilities for creativity and expression.

In addition to my local focus, I am deeply committed to telling climate stories through my photography. Recognizing the urgency of environmental issues, I donate a percentage of my print sales to environmental organizations. Recently, I was honored to receive FEMA’s Art for Climate Resiliency grant, and I’m excited about the upcoming opportunity to showcase my climate projects to broader audiences.

Last year was particularly transformative for me as I had the incredible opportunity to travel to both the Arctic and Antarctica. These experiences reinforced my commitment to telling global climate stories, as I witnessed firsthand the interconnectedness of our planet. The vastness and fragility of these polar regions inspired me to continue raising awareness through my art.

Currently, I am working on developing a new project that delves into the intricate relationships between climate and emotions that we experience due to the changing Earth. Stay tuned for updates on where this project will be exhibited, as I am eager to share the narrative with a wider audience. My goal is not only to capture the beauty around us but also to use my art as a catalyst for positive change, encouraging conversations about environmental stewardship and sustainability in our local and global communities.

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?
Reflecting on my journey, three key elements stand out as pivotal in my growth as a photographer. For those who are early in their photography journey, I offer the following advice:

* Active Pursuit of Opportunities and Networking:

The most crucial advice for new photographers is to actively seek opportunities and connect with like-minded individuals. Rather than waiting for work to come to you, take the initiative to showcase your work, participate in local events, and network within the photography community. Attend workshops, engage with social media platforms, and explore collaborative projects. Building a network not only exposes your work to a wider audience but also opens doors to valuable learning experiences.

* Passion for Storytelling and Continuous Improvement:

One of the cornerstones of my journey has been a deep passion for storytelling. Photography is not just about capturing images; it’s about conveying narratives and emotions. Cultivate a genuine interest in the stories you want to tell through your work. Additionally, commit to a continuous journey of skill improvement. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning by investing time in workshops, online courses, and staying updated on industry trends. The commitment to evolving your skills ensures that each photograph becomes a step forward in your artistic journey.

* Shooting for the Love of It:

Finally, approach photography with love and enthusiasm, not merely as a job. When you shoot from a place of passion, it reflects in your work. Don’t view photography solely as a means of income; let it be a source of joy and fulfillment. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, people, or events, maintain the curiosity and excitement that drew you to photography in the first place. This genuine love for the craft will sustain you through challenges and keep your creativity alive.

Photography is not just a profession; it’s a journey of self-discovery and creative expression. Embrace it wholeheartedly, and the rewards will follow.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Yes, I am actively seeking collaborations with fellow photographers around the world who share a passion for telling climate stories. Climate change affects diverse regions, from coastal areas facing rising sea levels to mountain towns experiencing the loss of snow and changing landscapes. I believe that these stories, interconnected and global in nature, can have a profound impact on raising awareness and inspiring positive action.

If you are a photographer passionate about climate storytelling and would like to collaborate, I encourage you to connect with me. You can reach out through Instagram @tamarasusaphoto or email me at [email protected]. Let’s join forces to amplify the voices of communities affected by climate change, broaden our reach, and inspire meaningful conversations. Together, we can harness the power of visual storytelling to make a positive impact on our planet.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Portrait of me at Disturbance exhibition opening: Kelsey Brunner All other photographs by Tamara Susa

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