Today we’d like to introduce you to Ellen Barnes.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ellen. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My early career took root as a photojournalist in Chicago, working for the Herald Newspapers. Every day was a new story and a new production challenge…I learned to travel light, think fast and roll with every situation I found myself in.
Most importantly, I learned to quickly and honestly connect with people and help tell their stories. I loved being a photojournalist, but then a road trip took me to Arizona where I fell in love with the Sonoran Desert. My connection to the desert was instant. It was life changing love…I knew I had to be here…to call the desert my home.
My early career took root as a photojournalist in Chicago, working for the Herald Newspapers. Every day was a new story and a new production challenge…I learned to travel light, think fast and roll with every situation I found myself in.
On returning to Chicago, I managed a quick transfer from Columbia College to Arizona State, where I continued to work as a photojournalist, shooting feature stories + documentary portraiture for the weekly paper. These assignments allowed me to stay professionally viable while I was in school. They also served as an opening to working with musicians for CBS Records, Modern Drummer Magazine and others.
As my work developed, fashion lifestyle became my focus…so I packed everything I needed and headed off to LA. I hit the ground running and quickly started shooting fashion, celebrities + lifestyle. Living in LA resulted in six happy and productive years connecting and working with amazing subjects in beautiful spaces with brilliant / talented crews – many who I still work with.
My love of the desert kept calling me and I knew I had to make it happen. It was a natural choice and a quick plane ride.
I’m so grateful to do the work I love from my home base in Phoenix, with the desert as my playground…or where ever my next assignment finds me.
Every day is a gift, everyone has a story. What’s yours?
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think most creatives would agree the road gets bumpy…but that’s how we grow as artists…more importantly as people.
Photography is subjective, you’ll either be right for a project or not. It’s not personal. Coming to terms with that early on will make the road less bumpy.
Please tell us about Ellen Barnes Photography.
I am a life & style photographer who specializes in location & natural light. I enjoy capturing natural relatable images that invite a desire to participate.
I know who I am as an artist and not afraid to stand against some trends that will pass away. However there much benefit to casting off & letting go as a photographer.
Producing a job including talent, crew, and location selection are incredibly important. So is the post work. It does take a village on most projects.
I’ve been a photographer my whole life. There is much to be said for a seasoned shooter in this ever changing industry.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
Knowing & receiving love daily from my family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ellenbarnesphotography.com/
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenbarnesphoto/
Image Credit:
Ellen Barnes Photography
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