Chic Critique Forum | Meet Celebrity Photographer ~ Laura Winslow!

Hey Chicas, we want to introduce everyone to Laura Winslow of Laura Winslow Photography ! Laura will be offering “4-Week Critiques” as one of our January Celebrity Photographers.

So Laura, why do you think honest critique or feedback is so important for your images?

I believe that honest critiques can both open your mind to different ways of seeing things and also help to shape and develop one’s style. Hearing what others see as positives in your own work can help to develop a consistent style and brand.

What camera do you use and what is your favorite lens?Canon 5D Mark II and a 50 1.2 L

What has been the most helpful critique you ever got on an image? Honestly, at the very beginning–keep in mind always be aware of what is behind your subject!

What 3 words would you use to describe your style! modern, colorful, fresh

Where do you pull your inspiration from?My inspiration comes from the textures and raw and often unexpected beauty of the locations I choose, colors and the way that my smallest clients open up and reveal their timid wonder or unaffected laughter.

What is one specific way that you balance work and family?
I don’t want to present this image that it is easy for me or that I really balance it at all. It is an ever-changing process that really depends on a lot of things–the stages my children are experiencing, my business, everything. I just try to take it one day at a time, do what I can and keep in mind that these moments with my children are fleeting and I must keep them the priority. Oh, and I don’t sleep very much.

Best biz/photo advice? Make connections with others–in your images, with your clients, within your community and across the internet.

What have you learned the hard way? That I can’t do everything. As women and mothers, we are always of the belief that we are superwomen. I still have a very hard time accepting help from anyone, but I have gotten much better at saying no to things that will further take away from my family. It is hard because I truly do want to do so many things but it is just impossible if you want to be happy and present for your children.

How does your business deal with the rise in photographers. What have you done to standout and compete? Truthfully, I think that the best way to stand out is to be true to yourself, your style, what you love and to not worry so much about others. You can’t be the photographer for everyone, and that is more than okay. Instead, if you capture images that you really love in a style that is truly you, you will naturally attract clients that appreciate your work. Sounds horribly trite, but do what you love and I believe that business will come organically.

Where have most of your 2011 clients come from (besides WOM)?Very early on, I did a bit of reading on SEO and picked up a few general tips on how to get your name higher in google search rankings. I am far from an expert, and it doesn’t happen overnight, but I have kept what I learned in mind. So, many of those who find me have searched certain terms on the internet for a photographer.

What is your most popular product? My custom image boxes with prints