Today we’d like to introduce you to LeAnn Mendoza.
LeAnn, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
In my first year of college, I had a bit of a creative crisis. My life felt a little too monotonous – so I spent a lot of time searching for the right creative outlet. I picked up weaving, sewing, embroidery, painting and then a guitar – but I’ve always been interested in videography. I got a camera for a trip I was going to be taking to the Pacific Northwest and ended up taking more pictures than videos. I fell in love with the ability a photo has to capture a moment and the feelings associated with it. I started looking for more opportunities to take out my camera, and just started shooting.
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?
My mission is to capture photographs in a way that feels authentic. Authenticity is the principle I use to dictate my photography and editing style. I want my photos to capture my subjects in a way that feels real and raw and in landscapes, I want to capture the true beauty of it. My goal is that from the moment I pick up the camera, I capture love and light truthfully, and in post-process only enhance the beauty of the moment. I want my subjects to see my photos and see themselves, I want their personalities to shine through, and I want them to feel and see how amazing they are through the photo. This is why I don’t pose my clients, rather I guide their stances and have them interact – “make your partner laugh,” “whisper something in their ear,” “tell your partner why you love them.” This is how love and light is captured, and I’m so grateful to have to opportunity to be the one capturing it.
To quote Rupi Kaur, “Your art is not about how many people like your work. Your art is about if your heart likes your work if your soul likes your work. It’s about how honest you are with yourself, and you must never trade honesty for relatability.”
What do you know now that you wished you had learned earlier?
In art and in life, be kind and be honest – to others and most importantly to yourself. Live life under the lens of kindness and honesty, and you’ll be surprised where your judgment takes you.
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?
I share my photos on Facebook and Instagram on @leannmendozaphoto. You can support my work by keeping me on your mind (and hearts!) for the next time you or someone you know is interested in capturing a special moment. My favorite aspect of this business is that it gives me a platform to meet new people and hear their stories.
Contact Info:
- Email: leannmendozaphoto@gmail.com
- Instagram: @leannmendozaphoto @leannmmendoza
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leannmendozaphoto/
Image Credit:
LeAnn Mendoza Photo @leannmendozaphoto
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