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

Hi Rachel, what are you inspired by?

Inspiration can come in many forms and that’s particularly true for me. Initially it was my father. He was an amateur photographer and he taught me many aspects of the art. Everything from how to capture the essence of a moment, leading up to developing and printing the final picture. We even had our own darkroom in the basement, so it was hands-on learning.

Others inspirations came from other come from fellow photographers, and just being outside and wandering around in some of my favorite places. Most of the time, it’s people I meet when I am at one my favorite haunts, or chatting with online about a posted photo. The photography world is eclectic and I feel that is the beauty of it. I love that it brings people together from all walks of life with a common thread. I love to capture the beauty of what world  nature has to offer.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I am where I am today because of hard work, perseverance, dedication, and due to those who have helped me grow as an individual and as a photographer. I have been told by many that I have “an eye” for photography.

I’m most excited and proud of the recognition that I have received over the last few years. Including my photos being posted on news station social media, being contacted by people all over the world asking to use my photos for teaching a class, or even to use them to do drawings.

In my opinion, what sets me apart is that I am always striving for better. I am constantly learning and perfecting my art. This isn’t easy because social media can be challenging. The biggest lesson I have learned along the way is that you must have thick skin and you have got to be open to criticism, constructive and otherwise.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

One of my favorite local spots is The Lower Salt River. You have everything from stunning landscapes, different views of Four Peaks, wildlife galore, and of course the beloved Salt River Wild horses. I would take friends on a driving tour of parts of Northern Arizona. We would go up through Flagstaff, head over to Williams and the Grand Canyon, and then up to the Page/Lake Powell area. The Page/Lake Powell area has an abundance of beautiful destinations. You have Horseshoe Bend, numerous slot canyons, and The Wave just to name a few. Arizona has endless beauty. all around you just have to get out and explore.  All it takes is exploration.

As to where I would eat or drink, it would be along the way in one of the many delicious Mom & Pop places that have some of the best food around. Not only do you find the best food, but you are likely to meet some of the most interesting people there.

Alright, so let’s jump right in! 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 a person, group, organization, book, etc. that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?  

I want to give a shoutout to my significant other Steve. He is the person who has encouraged me to go full speed ahead with my photography. I was always active in taking photos, traveling to places around Arizona, and doing some small shoots for people, but with his encouragement (and a few others) I started a website, a business Facebook page, Instagram page, have even done a few shows in the valley and have become more active in the photography/arts community. Steve had to become my “right hand” man, quite literally. I have had multiple right hand/wrist surgeries (unfortunately they don’t make left-handed cameras). It has made many aspects of my life challenging. He learned how to do things he never imagined he would need to, but I am grateful that he was willing and had the patience.

Website: www.segalphotography.com

Instagram: @rsegalphotography

Facebook: Segal Photography

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.