When did you get into photography and why? As a kid growing up, I always loved taking pictures of friends and landscapes (especially sunsets) and getting them back from the printer and tacking them up everywhere in my room or putting them in photo albums. When I was in my 20’s I took a Black and White photo class and printed up my own prints. I was hooked after that! I decided to go to Brook’s Institute and further my education.

How would you describe your shooting style? I would say that I am more of a spontaneous type of photographer who loves to shoot in natural light. I let my feelings/instinct/heart guide me. I like to go with the flow and not force anything..unless I have to. So I would say that my shooting style is editorial/documentary.

What kind of gear and technology do you use; and how does this influence or impact your work? I shoot with a Nikon D850 which is just over 47 megapixels. That size allows me to shoot my Fine Art Seascapes and print huge! I love my 80-200mm and my 24-70mm lenses. I also have 105 Macro that I love. I try to not get too techy and keep to the basics so I can focus on the creative aspect of my craft.

What photographer or artist has had the biggest influence on your own photography? I always loved Imogen Cunningham, Irving Penn and Herb Ritts. They all shot beautiful portraits and captured authentic moments.

What motivates or inspires you to continue taking pictures? Life moves so fast. Photography helps me to slow it down in a sense and reflect. I also lose myself to the moment when I am shooting. Same thing when I am surfing. I think it’s called FLOW.

______________________________

Michelle’s business, Michelle Lauren Photography, is based in Santa Barbara, CA and includes Weddings, Engagements, Special Events, Portraits, and Fine Art. To learn more, visit her website at michellelauren.com and follow her on Instagram @michellelaurenphotography.

Each week, a guest photographer takes over our Instagram stream as we spotlight photographers that inspire us…and that we feel embrace the meaning behind our tagline, #PhotographYourLove. As a business that process and prints photos, we see this as part of our mission.

Follow the Photograph your Love® Instagram Takeover @colorservices