Today we’d like to introduce you to Shaleena VanCanneyt.
Hi Shaleena, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was little I had an obsession with cameras. My parents would bring the film in to get developed and find out I took a bunch of photos of the cat, or my baby brother, or the back of my parents’ heads. They gave me my first digital camera, which I still have, a Sony Mavica, one of those ones with the floppy disc slots. Again, I took a lot of photos of the cat. When I was 13 I did my first wedding, I used a 4mp Kodak Easyshare Camera. From that point I slowly started upgrading my equipment, I shadowed other photographers, I did online classes, studied photography books.
I started to develop a love for not just photography but film photography as well. Film is so authentic and beautiful, and every roll is a surprise when it’s developed.
I officially started my business in 2016. Since then I have been privileged to photograph couples, births, families, and events. It’s my passion and the one thing I can always count on to make me happy. As someone with chronic illnesses it is super important to have something to bring you through the bad days and put you into a good day.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not an easy road. Being a photographer is difficult since there are so many of us! I can say though that each photographer has a unique style and personality, and finding someone you appeal to in both aspects is super important.
Aside from that I’ve worked through multiple creative blocks, when you just aren’t feeling it. I also have a lot of chronic health problems so it’s pretty difficult to work through those sometimes. But my family, friends, and my clients are so supportive of my work and they always encourage me to keep going and remind me that I genuinely love what I do.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I LOVE LOVE families. I take all kinds of photos, but families are definitely my favorite. I love interacting with the kids, they are always so fun to talk to and direct. I love having the kids tackle their parents, or run towards me, which is something the kids always love. I think they usually think photos will be boring, but I definitely change the little’s minds.
I think being able to keep the kids entertained during photos and get those genuine giggles is what makes me proud and sets me apart.
Plus I like to think I’m pretty cool, so, you know, there is that too. Haha
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
A lot of young photographers are always looking to break in and do everything right away as fast as they can. I’d say don’t be afraid to get a mentor, as for help, take some classes from a photographer you love. I offer mentoring as well because I felt so strongly about it. Experiment and know your worth.
When I was starting out I was pretty sure I knew what my style was, it took me a while to figure it out. I wish I was more patient and I definitely wish I had someone who could have told me that you are always learning, even after years and years. So it’s ok to not know everything yet, and it’s ok to admit that you don’t know everything yet.
If you love it, don’t give up, keep going, keep learning. You’ll get it.
Contact Info:
- Email: hello@shaleenadanielle.com
- Website: www.shaleenadanielle.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/shaleenadanielle
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/shaleenadanielle
Image Credits
All images were photographed by me.
