Owner/Photographer of Angi’s Art, LLC
THE BASICS
How long have you been in business? Since 2004Â How did you get started in the photography field? When? I got my degree in photography at the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg
Describe yourself in one word: Creative
GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS
What has surprised you most about this industry? Two things really”¦ First, how quickly the overall industry has changed in the last 10 years, with the take off of digital. Second, the camaraderie I’ve found with other professional photographers. I have found so many friends, peers and mentors throughout my career.
With the senior photo season approaching, what are three tips you would offer to clients?
1. Have a sit-down consultation with your photographer. This way the photographer is better able to represent your “you” during your senior session.
2. Don’t be afraid to bring your own props to the session. Do you play a musical instrument, sport, or have a hobby you love”¦ let’s show it off.
3. Three to five clothing changes are ideal. From dressy to casual, we want to capture “YOU.”
Do you have any favorite Lee’s Summit spots to shoot for portraits? Yes! Besides in my studio, the outside space next to my studio is fantastic”¦. arches, trees, fountains, greenery and a lake.
How did you get started with real estate photography? To be honest we sold our house. Before I took the images, I spoke with a few of my peers and got some great advice from them”¦ Now real estate photography has become part of my arsenal.
Do you have any big projects on the horizon? I have two big photography competitions coming up! For
competitions, I always pursue more artistic images that I wouldn’t normally do for a client.
What trends in photography have you noticed, and how do you try to stay current? Trends change so fast in photography to try to keep up, but I have realized my true photography identity is to keep my clients images timeless! However, I do always try to expand my skills by furthering my education through professional photographer associations.
How have advances in technology and social media affected your business? The ability to not be limited to the amount of images you can take on film has brought around more creative professionals. However, now we spend more time behind the compute editing, retouching and sharing images on social media.
JUST FOR FUN
Tell us about your family. I found my wonderful husband, Jake, 15+ years ago. We are fortunate to be raising one of the best little guys I know, our son Ethan. We also have three wonderful fur babies, Noki and Miley, our rambunctious dogs, and our cuddly cat Navigator.
What was your first job? Ha! Back in the day I worked at the video rental section of Hy-Vee. That doesn’t even exist anymore.
Morning or evening person? Neither”¦ is that an option? LOL!
Coffee or cocktails? Coffee, without it I can’t function.
What’s your favorite thing about Lee’s Summit? How close we are to so many outdoor activities, parks, lakes, walking and bike trails.