Today we’d like to introduce you to Raegan Clapsaddle.
Raegan, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Growing up, I thought I wanted to be a National Geographic wildlife photographer, but quickly realized how absolutely terrifying being face-to-face with a tiger would be, plus I hate bugs too much to camp on my own, in the wilderness! I had multiple passions growing up, with volleyball being the front-runner. I played at a high level my whole life and eventually went to college to play at San Diego State in California. I dreamed of majoring in photography, but to my surprise, they did not have that major, so once again, photography fell to the side, while I majored in art.
I was lucky enough to be in such a beautiful place for 5 years and took my camera out often and photographed my friends, always loving the creativity and freedom I felt using my camera. Once I graduated, I continued to follow my volleyball passion and became a coach and art teacher for the next 7 years. During this time though, I started to photograph people more often, and really dove into photography education. I began truly knowing in my heart and understanding that I indeed did want to be a photographer. So, it’s been a long time coming, but I can finally say that I am a photographer and I am so very happy to be here!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think in the big picture, I’ve had a lot of bumps in the road, some that seemed like mountains and some valleys, but in the end, I’ve had faith and have known things were going to work out, no matter the outcome.
My biggest challenges, when looking at my photography business, come from all of the times when I tried to take the steps to go full-time in photography, but God had other plans. I wouldn’t change much. All of the challenges have led to some great things throughout my life.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Having the title ‘artist/creative’ is something that I truly treasure. Oftentimes, people think of a photographer and think they just tell people to look and smile and press a button. I believe it can go SO far beyond that. Photography is so creative and can be powerful, emotional, joyous, heartbreaking, and much, much more.
When I am taking someone’s photos I want them to really feel something when they look back at the photos I’ve taken of them. In saying that, I strive to capture individuals or families exactly how they are in this special moment of life. I want people to feel comfortable and seen when I take their pictures, and of course, have fun while doing it. I have such an opportunity to love, serve, and help people love the skin that they are in. Two of the main things that I think sets me apart from other photographers are my easygoing and caring personality which helps people to feel at ease when they do a session with me, and second, my creative vision while photographing. Right now I offer boudoir, maternity, lifestyle/family, and senior photography.
We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking.
I think that risks are unique to each individual. Everybody is different. I like to think of myself as a ‘mid’ risk taker. I definitely evaluate things before I take the jump, but oftentimes still take the leap of faith.
The biggest risk in my business so far has been deciding to actually go full-time in photography from being a teacher/coach. I believe, if you never take the risks, how are you ever going to be able to achieve your dreams? If you fail, at least you tried! I’m sure if anything, you learned a couple of things along the way. So, I think in order to get where you want to be, you have to take the risks.
Contact Info:
- Website: raeganclapsaddlephotography.com
Image Credits:
Raegan Clapsaddle Photography
