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

Hi Cassidy, what do you attribute your success to?
The support of my family and friends. None of what I have accomplished so far could have been done without my parents giving me their endless support, love, and encouragement. I am so thankful they have believed in me and my creative passion from the very start. I also have to give credit to my amazing clients that come to me every year and give me the chance to capture all of their milestone moments. I am so beyond grateful.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I found photography and videography in kind of a funny way. Senior year of high school, I broke my wrist and couldn’t finish a painting I was working on. Instead, I asked my teacher if I could make a video highlighting high school stereotypes and their negative affects to make up for the painting and she agreed. She later submitted it to a film festival for me and I ended up winning the grand prize and an internship with Pixar! It was that point where I knew I could do this. I think that same week my parents bought me my first “professional” camera. Since then I have been nationally featured and published and have traveled to so many states photographing weddings, seniors, etc.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would first take them on a little hike in the morning to Papago park, I love the red rocks! The Desert Botanical Garden has a butterfly pavilion you are able to walk in and it’s so beautiful so that’s definitely on the list. Have a nice lunch at either Doughbird (everything is so good) or Postinos- they’re charcuterie boards are my favorite!! Arizona has the best sunsets so we of course have to end the night in Sedona for sunset.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout is dedicated to my grandfather. There are not enough words to express how grateful I am for the support he has given me throughout my life. He is my best friend and one of my biggest fans.

Website: https://cassidycristinephotograpy.mypixieset.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassidycristinephotography/

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidy-schoonmaker-57a039245

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.