Check out Christal Rose Stratton’s Photography Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christal Rose Stratton, Christal Rose Photography.

Christal Rose Stratton, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I am a natural light photographer with a bright/airy style. I photograph families, 1st birthday/cake smashes, high school senior sessions, maternity, but specialize in engagements and weddings. I always love to capture a good silhouette or a beautiful sunset. One of my favorite photography quotes is, “Which of my photographs is my favorite? The one I’m going to take tomorrow.”— Imogen Cunningham

I love this quote because I feel like I am always learning something new. I continue to grow not only in my business but my mindset as well. One thing I love to hear after a session is that they had fun. So many people feel nervous and uncomfortable at the beginning of a session. After getting started and talking they relax and have fun. Having Fun is what it is all about. I am very thankful to all my clients! To the ones who have been with me from the beginning of my journey. To the new people I get to meet. They continue to put their trust in me to creating new memories for them.

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I have always had a passion for photography. I have always loved taking pictures and capturing moments. It has always been a hobby of mine that eventually turned into a steady business. I went to college to become a teacher and taught for a short time. Then life happened! I had my first child a boy and became a stay at home mom. I ended up babysitting a little girl who was only 3 months older then my son. As my son got a little older I missed teaching and started substitute teaching. In the meantime (Rachel) the mother of the little girl I babysat started doing her own photography. I told my husband I have always wanted to get into doing photography but I have no clue where to start. Well my husband surprised me with a camera and lenses for Christmas of 2011. I practiced on my son, family, and friends. In 2012 I did my first family session.

By word of mouth my name started to get out there. Soon after I got pregnant with twins and decided to stop substitute teaching. I figured when the kids are all in school I can go back to teaching. After my twins were born my photography really started to take off. I decided it was time to get my business started and take all the proper steps. I second shot my first wedding with Rachel in Sedona. I fell in love with everything about weddings and knew this is the direction I was wanting to go. Rachel became a great friend and now second shoots with me at several weddings. She has supported me in this whole process and I thank her for that! I am continuing to grow in my business and I do know that this is what I love to do! It is an amazing feeling to be photographing a wedding, having a blast, and to say wow I love my job!

Have things improved for artists? What should cities do to empower artists?
I think everyone has an artistic side to them. They just need to find their passion, what they love and express it. As a photographer I feel it might be harder for some these days. Just because there are so many wonderful photographers out there. A lot of people compare their work to others and feel like it isn’t good enough, then they give up. One thing I have learned is everyone starts somewhere. The more you practice, communicate, stay positive, and never give up the better you will get. There is always something new to learn and try. The main thing is do what works for you!
I have also learned to know your self-worth. I have had people inquire about sessions and weddings who have passed because they said it is out of their budget.

I think my pricing/packaging is reasonable and where it needs to be. Many people don’t understand all that comes along with the process. It’s not just taking the pictures and you’re done. There are many hours put into editing, traveling, taxes, and equipment. When photographing I put my heart into it and work really hard at making your day special. So, I don’t get discouraged anymore if someone decides not to go with me. I just say to myself if wasn’t meant to be. I understand there are so many different styles out there too. As a client you want to make sure your photographer fits what you are looking for. You want to be comfortable and have a connection with each other.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
My work is on my Facebook photography page. People can support me by liking and following my page. After I do a session or a wedding I post sneak peeks within 24-48 hours. I have a fast response time to answer questions, share links, and help with location choices.

www.facebook.com/christalrosephotography

Contact Info:

• Address: 10131 E Cicero Circle Mesa, Az 85207
• Phone: 6027511307
• Email: christalrosephotography@cox.net
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/christalrosephotography

Image Credit:
Christal Rose Photography.

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