Meet Trailblazer Taylor Krassa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Krassa.

Taylor, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always been drawn to photography, I loved snapping photos of friends with my point and shoot film camera, and was involved in the yearbook in high school. However, it wasn’t until I took my first photography class, as part of my graphic design degree, that I really felt that “This is it” spark.

After that, I was hooked. I focused on photography courses while completing degrees in Business Management and Graphic Design. After a year studying Fine Art at U of A, I moved to Phoenix and started working with other professionals in the industry to get hands-on experience.

In 2015, after a couple years working with photographers in the valley, I hopped on a plane and spent a year traveling and working in Australia. It was an incredible experience that definitely helped expand my worldview.
When I came back to Arizona in 2016, I started taking a personal inventory, focusing on my passions, and pushing my business to where it is today. There’s still a lot of work ahead, but I am proud of the progress I have made and can’t wait to continue to grow within my art and my business.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a long road, full of potholes. Finding your passion and direction isn’t always easy, especially in the arts. There have been some seriously long days/weeks, working crazy schedules to make things work, but that’s something any business owner goes through.

I honestly feel so fortunate to have such a wonderful community, from the start I have felt supported and encouraged by those in the industry, which makes a world of difference! Being able to connect with those who share similar experiences with you and who cheer you on, rather than tearing you down, is a blessing.

If I could offer any advice, it would be to make those connections, regardless of what industry you are in. Find a group or a networking event and meet the people who will encourage you to grow. Likewise, be supportive of others. You will be amazed the opportunities that will come your way with an excellent attitude and the willingness to help others.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Taylor Jade Photography – what should we know?
Just as any other artistic medium, photography can be so much more than just an image. I specialize in Portraiture and Editorial Photography which allows me to share my passions for emotional storytelling and connecting with my clients. I aim to create images that truly capture my subject, and evoke a feeling in the viewer.

The biggest compliment I receive is when a client or model tells me that they felt at ease and completely comfortable during our sessions. I want to create an environment where someone can be 100% themselves. Rather than feeling insecure or stressed, I want my clients to walk away from the experience feeling empowered and confident.

Which women have inspired you in your life?
Oh goodness, that’s a lengthy list! Through my work, I’ve connected with some amazing women-owned brands, and feel so fortunate to be a part of a community of empowered women. These ladies continue to inspire me in my personal life and business.

Artistically, I have always been fascinated by Annie Leibovitz. Not only is her work beyond stunning, but the life experiences she shares are equally inspiring. I am so drawn to the way she is able to authentically capture her subjects and have strived to emulate that within my own work. I can’t recommend her book “At Work” and a documentary “Annie Leibovitz: Life Through a Lens” enough, they are among my absolute favorites.

My mom has been a big influence on me as well. She is an avid reader and has a thirst for knowledge, unlike anyone I know. She continues to inspire me to learn and grow and to be more conscious of things happening in the world. She makes me want to be a better human.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.taylorjadephotography.com
• Phone: 928.830.8489
• Email: info@taylorjadephotography.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylorjadephotography/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaylorJadePhotography/

Image Credit:
Taylor Jade Photography

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