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

Hi Aspen, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by the people I meet through my business. The clients that I have connected with, and the artists that I’ve collaborated with have all been a part of my journey of growth as a photographer. I like to bring everything I have to every shoot, to be present, so I can see those opportunities for inspiration. Almost every shoot gives me new ideas for concepts I want to capture, and ways I want to do that. I challenge myself to get out of my comfort zone often, and that’s why my content stays fresh and diverse.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I seek to capture the most beautiful, powerful version of people when I photograph them. I am the type of person who sees people’s potential, and I want to inspire people I meet to be their best selves. It is so rewarding when people tell me that they love how they look in my photos, and that it has helped renew their confidence. Building my business from the ground up has been challenging in a lot of ways, but I’ve refined my craft and workflow, built up a client base, and I am continually looking for the next thing I can do to improve myself and my business.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a week to show my best friend around Arizona, I would definitely start by taking her to downtown Phoenix. The downtown areas in the valley are artsy, with lots of amazing options for food, drinks, museums, and outdoor activities. Roosevelt Row in Phoenix is a gorgeous area with stunning street art, and a personal favorite shoot location for me. The Arizona Science Center has interactive displays and diverse shows and exhibitions, and the shows at the Symphony Hall are a breathtaking cultural experience. My favorite Phoenix restaurants are Hanny’s and Taco Guild, and Lacuna Kava Bar is a surprising find, with many options for kava and kratom teas. Other must visit places in the valley are Schmooze Coffee Bar in Scottsdale and Pexioto Coffee and The Perch in Chandler. Otherwise, Arizona has tons of beautiful hikes on South mountain, and I have enjoyed kayaking on Tempe Town Lake.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to recognize the organization RAW. Last fall, I was given a spot in an art show that was organized by RAW, and that is where I made connections with many models, dancers, and other artists that I’ve worked with this year. It was an exceptional opportunity to display my work artistically.

Website: https://www.aspenbealsphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspenbealsphoto/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aspen-beals-b8584118b/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aspenbealsphotography

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.