Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Nelson.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chris. So, let’s start at the beginning, and we can move on from there.
After having my first child, I wanted to be sure to capture all of his firsts, so I picked up my first DSLR camera at Costco and started photographing him. I would post my photos on Facebook and people started to ask if I would take their children’s photos. I would, mostly for friends and for free, because I didn’t think it would become of anything, and I truly enjoyed it. I was still teaching middle school science at the time, so I did not have much time to truly build a photography business. After the birth of my second child, I decided to stay home to take care of both children, and while doing so, I was given more time to truly dive into photography. Seven(ish) years later, here I am.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is there ever a smooth road? Ha! The road has definitely not been smooth… I think the biggest challenge I have faced time and time again is staying true to what feels right to me. It is hard in a day and age where we are flooded with so many beautiful images and to compare your work to others… am I good enough? Why am I not that good? How can I get better? Why can’t I produce those images? The list can go on and on, but I have found that if I block out everyone else, and truly say true to my vision and style, then people are attracted to that and THATS where I produce my best work.
Another challenge I have is other photographers who are not necessarily the kindest. The photography world is very competitive and with that comes people who are very territorial and very protective. My philosophy is one of an open book. I am always willing to help and to share others who are just starting or others who have been in the industry longer than I have but just need help finding a location. I share my clients with a photographer I trust when not available and I am never jealous of when a past client uses someone else. There are enough clients out there for all of us! As my one friend says #communityovercompetition, I could not have said it better.
Please tell us more about your work.
I am a local North County San Diego photographer who specializes in family, children and maternity portraits. I hope it is to capture the emotions in a session… the joys, the laughter, the love, and even the crying little ones because it is real! I am most concern about capturing how the family IS in that moment that I am with their outfits, the location *although the light is also just as important* or that perfect smile.
I love my clients like they are my friends and most of them are by now! I am the most proud not only of my ability to capture their lives throughout the years but also the relationships I have with them. They are all so special to me! Thats what sets me apart… I truly do look forward to hanging with my clients! It doesn’t even feel like work!
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
My favorite childhood memories are the ones that I think all kids in the 80s and 90s can relate to. It’s coming home after walking the half mile home, getting a snack, watching an episode of Saved by the Bell and going outside to play with the neighborhood kids till the street lights came on. And when no one was out, you would go knock on each door to ask if “Billy” could come out and play. Bikes, swimming, playing tag, roller skating, lip syncing, dancing, playing hide and go seek… those pure moments, that’s what childhood is about.
Contact Info:
- Website: chrisnelsonphotography.net
- Email: chris@chrisnelsonphotography.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisnelsonphoto/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnelsonphoto/
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