Photography is such an important piece of a special event. Without it, you need to rely on fond memories; and with it, you can share your special time with everyone… forever.
An Interview with STORYLENS PHOTOGRAPHY
I have the pleasure of calling Lisa McKendry a friend. She is not only a friend, but a fabulous photographer as well! I sat down with Lisa to pick her brain about what makes her tick and how she found her passion for the art of photography. Check it out!
Flower House: How did you discover your passion for photography?
Lisa: I grew up traveling the world with my parents. I have always been fascinated by simple stories- the one that each of us have that connects us as humans. As I’ve translated that and my passions of travel and adventure into a tangible, visible art form, I have had the honor of connecting with people to tell their story. I love finding the nuances that make people “themselves”.
Flower House: What is your most memorable “shoot” or experience thus far?
Lisa: I have always been a mountain girl and am used to the wildlife and it takes a lot to rattle me… However, I was shooting a wedding with a good friend at the Cherokee Ranch and Castleoutside of Sedalia and just that happened. We were on the castle grounds shooting the romantics of the bride and groom. The bride had delicately and carefully walked down the rugged stone steps. She and the groom were gazing into each other’s eyes. Laura was snapping away and I heard it first, then saw it- a rattle snake rattling away about 6” from Laura’s foot. There was nothing delicate about getting out of there. As soon as I realized what it was, I told Laura to move and the next thing you know, we were ALL dashing up the stairs. It must have been quite a scene to see the bride in her gown and the groom in his tux running at sprint pace up the stairs followed by their photographers. I wonder if people thought they were running from us??
Flower House: What would you advise people look for while selecting a photographer?
Experience and personality. There are a lot of people out there “in business”- however there is no substitute for time and experience. It is the “what if things don’t go exactly as planned” reactions that will prove to be important on your wedding day. Having a photographer who is experienced with weddings specifically is so important. They know how to anticipate what is coming, who are the key players, where they should be to set up the shot, and how to shoot in any lighting/weather situation Having someone with a good, flexible and fun personality will only enhance your experience and create a comfortable environment. When you are at ease, your photos show it. When things are on time and organized, you are at ease. These are all subtle, but very important details to pay attention to in your selection of your wedding photographer.
Flower House: What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment, personally or career related?
Lisa: The journey of choosing a path that was not “mainstream” and pursuing my dream to own and operate my own business. I had a great job working for a non-profit doing their marketing and special events when I decided to take the leap of faith and return to school at age 30. When I got to the Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, I never looked back. I love the challenge, the discipline, and the creativity it takes to make it all work. It is kind of like training for a marathon, except it keeps going and going! I love it.
Flower House: Anything else we should know about Lisa?
Lisa: When you don’t find me behind the lens (or my computer), you will likely find me out on a mountain trail running, mountain biking or skiing with my husband and friends. I love Colorado and love shooting people in our beautiful environment.
Do yourself a HUGE favor… contact Lisa for your next special event. Her gift of photography will become your gift to everyone you love.
Cheers!
Amy
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