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

Hi Paulann, how has your pespective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I have to admit that’s something I’m trying to get better at. There are many many days when I wake up and head straight to my desk to work on photos or fliers and the next thing I know it’s time for bed. I’m learning that sometimes it’s okay to go to events and support my fellow artists without bringing my camera. This helps me cut back on the huge volume of work that I set in front of myself while still letting my fellow artists know that I support them.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For one, variety. I do architecture, products, events, headshots, cosplay, graphic design, and super-edits where I use photoshop to paint on top of photos that I’ve taken. I’m not aware of any other photographer who does all of those things. Aside from that, I’ve also been told that other photographers put a lot of their own vision into shoots with their subjects. That’s fine, and their photos come out great, but I like to let my subjects do their own thing. If there’s a pose or costume that you really want to showcase, I’m here to capture your vision, not just mine. And I’ve been told that I do that very well.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It depends. When people come to visit, I like to give them options. It’s their vacation, not mine. I’ve had friends come out for Fan Fusion, some who wanted to see a baseball game, and others whose goal was to collect a set of dice from all 50 states. I like to take people to Hole in the Rock and Arizona Falls. If they’ve never been to the Grand Canyon, chances are we’ll go there. I also like to take people to Jerome or Sedona and have a meal with them at The Haunted Hamburger or Tlaquepaque, respectively. Phoenix and Scottsdale Public Libraries also have culture passes that I love to use. I’ve used them for the Desert Botanical Garden, Arcosanti, the Japanese Friendship Garden, and a few different museums — I’ve always loved going to museums, even as a kid. Oh, and I can’t resist taking a visitor to the Cornish Pasty Co. The best eatery in town!

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?
The Queer Agenda. I have finally found a home in the queer community thanks to the folks at Queer Agenda. Specifically Douglas Miles (AKA: Ev3All). He and the rest of the troupe have made me feel at home as their photographer and graphic designer. What they do in turn for their community is astonishing. If you feel like you need a safe and accepting space to showcase your art in, that’s the place.

Website: paulannegelhoff.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulannegelhoff/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulannegelhoff/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulannEgelhoff
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaulannEgelhoffPhoto
Other: A new website is on the way. Keep checking in for more new content!

Image Credits
The personal photo of me (with red hair) is by Christina Faye.