Check out Melynda Chavarria’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melynda Chavarria.

Melynda, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I was born and raised in a small town in beautiful Idaho where the weather is unpredictable, the neighbors wave as you pass by, and everyone knows everyone. Let’s just say, I knew each and every person’s name in my entire high school! I joined the military in 2002, as an aircraft mechanic and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. The military provided the opportunity to travel the world seeing so many beautiful places and exploring different cultures. In 2007, I was stationed at Davis Monthan Air Force base in Tucson, Arizona where I met my husband in 2010 and we were married in 2012. I left the military life in 2013, to work in Tucson as a manufacturing engineer. Shortly before I left the military, I discovered my passion and love for photography after I purchased my first camera. I immediately wanted to learn more. Photography has been an outlet for me and has helped me grow as a person. It has given me a passion that I have never felt before. I have always been an outgoing person and enjoy the company of others. Photography has given me so many opportunities to meet some amazing people, whether it be a client or a fellow photographer. Arizona has such an amazing “community over competition” attitude and I love being a part of it.

Everything I know about photography has been self-taught, from the moment I picked up my first camera, I have not stopped learning and growing. Every day, I challenge myself to step out of the box and try something new. Through photography, I am able to capture emotions and moments in time that not only will clients remember but I will remember! Seeing those smiles, hugs, and kisses through my lens is something that fills my heart and soul with joy.

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?
As a photographer, it’s been hard for me to specialize in one specific area because I find every type of photography to be challenging. I love learning new and different techniques. I enjoy challenging myself in different lighting situations and I feel is well versed in all types of photography help make me a better photographer. Although, if I had to choose my favorites it would be graduations and weddings. I find it so motivating and inspirational when working with graduates who are so full of ambition and setting goals for their future.

My other favorite, weddings are incredibly amazing to photograph. To see and be a part of the story is incredibly fulfilling. Not only do photographers take photos but they wear so many hats throughout the day (coordinator, confidant, friend, a listening ear). You name it, I’ve done it! My all-time favorite portion of a wedding is during the reception when the music starts flowing and people start dancing. We often forget to just observe happiness and this is an incredible thing to witness. Every single person on the dance floor is so carefree and smiling that I literally cannot stop smiling throughout the entire reception.

We often hear from artists that being an artist can be lonely. Any advice for those looking to connect with other artists?
The first couple of years after I left the military, I felt lonely most of the time. I decided last year, that it was time to get out and start meeting people, so I joined some Facebook photography groups. Through these groups, I made it a point to post and ask questions about technique, arranging group shoots or just meet for coffee. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I have met some incredibly talented and wonderful people. Many of whom have become close friends and are truly an inspiration to me and my work.

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?
Through my website. I also love connecting with people on Facebook.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mcphotographyaz.com
• Phone: 208-890-6087
• Email: mcphotography82@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/mcphotographyaz
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/mcphotography82

Image Credit:
Melynda Chavarria, Jose Carlos
HMUA: Felicia Ngan

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