THIS WEEK WE INTERVIEWED LOVELY & TALENTED PHOTOGRAPHER,

MICHELLE LAURA

CONTINUE READING TO LEARN ALL THIS BEAUTIFUL GEM

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF

“Hey guys! I'm a 30 year old San Diego native just trying to find the beauty in the world. People often describe me as having the softest voice and the kindest heart. I've always had the tendency to help others which is one of the reasons why I attended University of the Pacific and pursued a career in pharmacy. About 2 years ago, I fell in love with photography again and since then have been trying to find balance between the two. I am so excited to see exactly where this creative journey will take me.”

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE PHOTOGRAPHY?
Growing up, I was fortunate enough to travel often with my family. With a camera in hand, I always found myself taking photos where ever we went. During that time, I absolutely idolized Andrew Kearns and his work. Once I saw him transition from landscape to portraiture, I tried to do the same! I began asking my friends to let me take their photos and after some time, I felt confident enough to work with models. I just love how much more emotion can be captured in a photo and honestly have never looked back.

HOW DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT TGS?

I found out about TGS when I attended one of their first meet ups in Carlsbad. A lot of my friends were going so I jumped the bandwagon. Really glad I did!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO JOIN TGS?
I decided to join TGS because I loved what it stood for and what it had to offer, a safe and supportive space for creatives. Because of TGS, I have been able to collaborate and network with so many other talented artists.

WHERE DO YOU DRAW YOUR INSPIRATION FROM?

I tend to draw inspiration from creating and networking with other creatives. Collaborating and engaging with others really feeds into my drive. From them I'm always able to learn new techniques and gain different perspectives.

FAV LOOK, AESTHETIC OR THEME WHEN SHOOTING?

I'm all about the soft and dreamy tones. My favorite aesthetics and vibes come from Free People. I would love to shoot for them one day.

DO YOU HAVE CREATIVE FRIENDS YOU LIKE TO MEETUP AND BRAINSTORM WITH?

“I would work with some people more frequently than others here and there but its never been completely consistent. As my style evolves, so are the people I work with. I would definitely love to build a team whose aesthetics and goals align with mine and take my artwork to the next level. *Ahem * Wink Wink *”

MOST INTERESTING STORY REVOLVING AROUND YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY?

I think the coolest thing I ever witnessed so far was an actual surprise proposal during a couple shoot I had not too long ago. I had asked a couple I barely knew if they would let me take engagement style photos of them to build my portfolio. It so beautiful.. We were at our last location right along side the golden gate bridge. When I was wrapping up, he asked me if I could take photos of him high-fiving his girlfriend. An odd request I thought, but hey I went with it. Before I knew it he knelt down on one knee, reached for something in his back pocket, and mumbled something. I had absolutely no idea it was coming, he didnt tell me! She said yes of course and I was dying with joy. There were just so many other wonderful things about that day and I am so grateful to be a part of such a beautiful moment.

RANDOM STUFF ABOUT YOU

I have a dog named Sophie and she's pretty freaking cool. My current obsessions include indoor plants, sketching, and sitcoms. Introverted, empathetic, and emotional, I've definitely hit the trifecta... Its been a beautiful process becoming self aware of my traits and growing from them.