Meet Cecilia Taylor | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cecilia Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cecilia, why did you pursue a creative career?
Pursuing the art of photography as a career was a bold choice for me. Growing up, I was taught to value desk jobs, working 9-5 for a salary or hourly wage. This lifestyle never really appealed to me. Being creative is part of who I am, and if I can turn that into a career I will love then I will do everything I can to make that happen! It started with playing the flute in band when I was younger, and turned into loving the arts! I felt that if I could make a good or even decent living off of photography then I have accomplished something, not only for myself but for my family. I want to show my daughter that you can do anything and be anything you want if you believe in yourself and work hard. Not only that, but being your own boss definitely has its benefits!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Being a portrait photographer (or any kind of photographer) is not easy. It’s more than just the click of a button. The person behind the camera is what makes the magic work. There is so much knowledge that goes along with photography – you have to understand lighting, angles, how to edit photos, even just knowing your camera settings are SO important to setting up for a successful photo session. I think I learned a lot from attending college, but honestly most of the learning comes from real life experience. Attaining clients and having client relations is maybe the most essential part of growing a business, in my opinion. This is what I struggled with in the beginning, and even sometimes to this day! There were times when months would pass by and not a single inquiry would come through my inbox. This was very discouraging for me. But I had to remember that in a world where people and families are always growing, so is the need for photographers. Basically, there will always be a need or a want for photographers, and while it may not seem like it right now, I had to keep pushing forward. I am proud of how far I have come in my photography career – I can see the improvement I have made with every session and my clientele has steadily been increasing! I am glad that I never gave up on my dreams.

I think what sets me apart has to do with WHYI do what I do – I want you to feel like your absolute best self in front of the camera! We can have fun, be silly, laugh, all the while capturing genuine moments of you and your life. Giving something to you that they can look back on and cherish forever gives me the greatest joy in life. I love capturing those real, authentic moments. Not only so you can see it, but so you can FEEL it. I think this is what sets me apart – I really want to bring the clients vision to live, and I want to do in a way that makes them feel comfortable and supported! Most of all I want them to be happy with the end result, and really be able to feel the emotions from the session.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely want to take them to Downtown Flagstaff! There are so many cute shops and restaraunts. It’s always a fun time walking up and down the streets wondering where you might stop in to next. I like this little café type place called Juice Pub & Eatery- they have the best acai bowls! As for other spots I would take people to, I love Arizona Snowbowl and I think it’s a must for visitors. Aspen corner is likely where we would stop and hike! It’s such a beautiful landscape with all the aspens and mountain views.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I definitely wouldn’t be where I am today with my mentor, Monica Saaty. She was one of my professors in college, and has helped tremendously with the growth of my business. It was with her help that I did not give up and continued to pursue photography. Being an entrepreneur can be challenging at times, and some days I just want to throw in the towel and give up. But because of how much I have learned and grown the past few years, I know that with the help and support of others I can accomplish anything. Thank you Monica!

Website: www.ceciliaraephotography.com

Instagram: CeciliaRaePhotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CeciliaRaePhotography