Life and Work with Michelle Zapien

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Zapien.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started photography five years ago as a hobby. It all started with a Nike shoe and the beach as my backdrop, Mt. Soledad to be exact. From there, I went camera crazy and learned as much as my mind would allow. My photographs represent more than a beautiful image. They represent very early mornings, late nights, falls down hills, multiple site visits, and extensive travel time. When I am out shooting, getting the perfect shot is the only thing on my mind, which can mean hiking for miles with a heavy equipment backpack and/or waiting hours for the right time to shoot.

On this journey, I have taken every opportunity I get to: go out and shoot, learn new techniques, continue to push my limits of creativity and adventure, and most importantly, in my opinion, make my own rules.

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?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Acquiring the right photo equipment, establishing a brand, understanding your purpose, how and why your work if different from others’, and knowing the value of your work have all been difficult spaces to navigate. These have been difficult spaces to navigate because resources can often be expensive and time can be limited.

My advice to younger women would be: do not be afraid to ask for help, always be open to learning and exploring, do not get caught up in the “what do you shoot with” hype (your skills will show through no matter what camera you shoot with), and most importantly, follow your own rules.

Please tell us about EMZY Photography.
As a landscape photographer, my work is lyrical imagery because with every picture comes to a song. A song that touches your heart, brings back that smile and makes you believe in miracles. Or a song that takes you back to a time and place you learned one of life’s biggest lessons. Through my ability to capture the world’s greatest gifts, I would like for everyone to see how music and your brain’s ability to associate life experiences with a time, place, and very specific memory can move you closer to life’s blessings. That even though you were not standing in that place of greatness with me, you recognize the gift we have all been given.

Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well positioned for?
I believe women in landscape photography are well positioned for using social media platforms and building an online presence to bring visibility to their works of art, which will also contribute to bringing women to the forefront of nature and landscape photography.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emzy-photography.com
• Phone: 209-345-4917
• Email: mzzapien83@yahoo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emzyphotographyy
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/EmzyPhotography

Image Credit:
Michelle Zapien

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