Meet Bethany Schuck | Photographer

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

Hi Bethany, why did you pursue a creative career?
Creating art has always brought me so much joy.

At a young age, I would use my journal as a means to catch moments. Later I got my first disposable camera and I started taking pictures of those I loved to preserve memories. It always felt important and weighty to remember things in writing or in pictures. As I got older, the desire to create grew. In high school I took a photography class and I felt so fulfilled at documenting memories and telling stories in pictures. I discovered my joy for creating a world in which people could see how I viewed them. A small light grew in me then and there – this is what I wanted to do.

I have always been a person who longs for creative expression in everyday life. Grabbing my camera and looking through the lens gives me the freedom to see things differently, to see people differently. Photography is an art form in so many ways: the lightening, my camera settings, the way I pose and create movement with my clients, and even the post editing after a shoot. All aspects of the art of photography fulfills me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Photography is creating; it’s art, it’s love, it’s sharing and connecting with people. This isn’t just a job for me. I am a lifestyle photographer who specializes in portrait, family life, and branding photography.

I carry my clients with me. I think about them, hold them in my heart, laugh with them, and sometimes cry with them. I am their biggest cheerleader. I long to be in the forefront of their minds, cheering them on. Looks are never out of line; blemishes are beautiful. “You are beautiful, you are wise, you are worth it”. That’s my heart for every client, every person. I want there to be a knowing, that just as they are, they are complete. Just as they show up, they are perfect.

Art has given me the tools to see myself more clearly, to articulate to the world my heart and my passion: people. Connection is the backbone to this concept. Connection from one human to the next, in this life that where we are linked. It’s not just a photo shoot, it’s an awakening to oneself. It’s a call to be fully seen and to be heard. My desire for every photoshoot is to empower people, personally and professionally.

This is what sets me apart. I crave authenticity and connection. I want my clients to see themselves through my eyes, to see their beauty. Taking a picture isn’t enough to me, the art is in all the small things, in the extra tender loving care. I know the nuances of getting in front of the camera, the vulnerability it takes. I am a person that advocates for my people, for my clients. Yes I pose them, yes I prompt them, but it’s the authenticity and rawness that takes these pictures and turns them into a story.

Taking on challenges is what grows us as human beings. Building this business and sharing it with the world in an authentic way feels vulnerable to me, but necessary. Just as putting yourself out there to get photographed can be intimidating, one of the biggest struggles I’ve had is putting myself out there to be seen and heard as a photographer. It’s always worth it. if I can reach just one person and let them know that despite their struggles they’re part of a beautiful story, I’ve done my job.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When friends or family visit, I always take them to this local spot right by our place, Casa Marana. Casa Marana has free games, great drinks, and a friendly staff. Their pizza is amazing and the vibe is always chill.

I also love taking people to downtown Tucson. There are great places to eat and drink. If we want to play pool we stop by The Hut or The Shanty. If we want to go bowling we always go to Fiesta Lanes for a great time. Another unique and exciting spot is The Arcade Bar, with tons of old school arcade games and fun themed drinks..

For lunch or dinner Serial Grillers or Baggins Sandwiches are delicious local options. Serial Grillers started out as a food truck here in Tucson and now has four restaurants, all with divine burgers and delicious salads. For a sweet delicious treat The Screamery is a must. It’s a local free range ice cream shop that our family loves.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am at today with out the love and support of my dear partner, Christopher. He has cheered me on, wiped my tears, and has been a constant in my life. Through every twist and turn in my career and personal life, he has held my hand and supported me through it all. Every dream that I have ever materialized is because Christopher has been by my side. He is a kind, gentle man that rallies behind this girl in every situation. He sees me, and my creative endeavors as a gift to this world and I am so thankful for him.

Website: www.juniper.photo/

Instagram: @juniperstudiosphotography

Image Credits
Kelly Meyers