About

From There to Here… (or How I’ve Evolved as a Photographer over the Past 20+ Years)

Bonjour et bienvenue!

I’m Elizabeth, and I’m the face and voice, eyes and ears, heart and soul of Très Amusante Photographie. I’m an INFJ and I’ve never met a cinnamon roll I didn’t like. I’m delighted that you stopped by to view my work and learn more about me!

Why did I choose such a weird name for my studio? Well, I knew I didn’t want to be Your Name Photography. I wanted something different, something that people would remember (even if they couldn’t pronounce it), and something that gave a glimpse into what I’m all about as a photographer. Très Amusante Photographie is French for Very Fun Photography, and that it is certainly what I strive to produce.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned after more than 20 years in the photographic industry, it’s that things are always changing. For example, I learned about light and how to create a proper exposure on a manual film camera, and how to develop and print that film in a darkroom, as a teenager. But these days, digital imaging is the industry standard, which includes the mastery of various advanced, powerful software systems. So if you wish to pursue a path in contemporary photography, get comfortable with change. I know that sounds intimidating, but change doesn’t have to be scary. Let me tell you my story…

In my 20s, I studied photography in college, worked as an assistant in a local studio, and learned the ropes of portraiture and the business side of photography. When my portfolio was strong enough to attract my own clients, I started my own studio. From that moment on, I was focused completely and obsessively on my portrait photography studio. I responded to client inquiries, conducted consultations, scheduled sessions, instructed clients on how to prepare for them, photographed everything from children to high school seniors to weddings, edited the images, delivered online proof galleries, placed orders for prints and photo products, maintained a website, designed albums and marketing materials, attended educational workshops to stay current on industry best practices, and anything else that needed to be done. My professional life consumed my personal life. Nothing was more important to me than building my business and documenting my clients’ important moments.

Shortly after I turned 30, I started dating the guy who would become my husband, and my personal and professional priorities shifted. We spent the next decade traveling all over the continental US and parts of Canada, to tropical islands, and even went to Europe twice. We ate amazing food, both homemade and at fantastic restaurants, and discovered a love and enthusiasm for craft beer. Gradually, I found myself taking less and less photographic work, because instead of documenting other people’s incredible moments, I was living my own. But I still had to pay the bills, so I took an entry level office position which offered opportunities for growth.

Now in my 40s, I have been working in higher education for 13 years. My current position is in administration and project coordination, and makes excellent use of my attention to detail and ability to stay organized, even as situations and circumstances change rapidly. I’m also a devoted mom to a very sweet and smart little girl. Spontaneous living room dance parties with her are my absolute favorite activities on Earth! My husband and I are still avid travelers, and we love to take our daughter along on our adventures, introducing her to new places and experiences. No, I no longer earn my living from photography, but I find that the personal and professional work I do now are just as gratifying as when photography was my bread and butter. I still enjoy shooting portraits, and I do accept the occasional photographic commission from family and friends. And these days, this website mainly serves that particular demographic. Perhaps one day I’ll offer my services to the general public again, but not for now. 

The point of all this is that as you go through each phase of your life, your dreams will change. And that’s OK! In fact, it’s pretty amazing! In my 20s, my dream was to be a portrait photographer, and I did it! In my 30s, my dream was to travel and explore, and eat and drink, with the man I loved, and I did it! In my 40s, my dream is to do meaningful work while setting a good example for my daughter and enjoying every moment of her childhood, and I’m doing it! 

Each decade and the challenges I face in it are unique, but they just keep getting better. And I can’t wait to see, and document, what’s next!

Merci pour votre visite!

— Elizabeth