Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire McAdams.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I joke that I became a photographer by accident, but a wonderful mixture of passion and luck set me on this path. When I first picked up a camera, I was studying musical theatre and surrounded by incredible dancers, singers and actors. Every aspect of my photography was inspired by them. Throughout my years juggling theatre and photography, it became clear that photography inspired a work ethic and commitment in me that was worthy of a full time career. When I graduated I started working as a photographer full time and since then have had the pleasure of working for the Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony, Houston Grand Opera and many other arts organizations and performers around Houston.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Everything about my career has flowed so naturally. Being a business owner is a lot of responsibility and I’ve learned a lot about time management and curating my work to create the life I want.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
A portrait is an opportunity to tell a story. Connecting with people, finding their unique spark and helping them bring that spark to life on camera is at the heart of everything I do. While I mainly photograph actors, dancers and artists, I’ve found so much joy working with everyone from therapists and lawyers to athletes and graduating seniors. In a world that continually tries to narrow what is considered “attractive”, I want to help my clients recognize their own distinct brand of beauty.
Lately I’ve been particularly focused on working with actors to create headshots and marketing materials to help them book acting jobs. Before even picking up a camera we spend close to an hour discussing their goals and specific skill sets. That conversation provides so much context and helps them get comfortable with the process before it even starts. Bonding with each actor and exploring their craft is infinitely exciting to me and I care deeply about providing value through my work.
I’ve been a photographer for 15 years and it will always be the core of how I choose to make art, but the control and flexibility of running my own business has allowed me to add various side quests into my life. I set aside time to travel and document those adventures on youtube. I have also slowly become a musician over the past 8 years. Being entrenched in the arts enriches my life and my work and I’m so grateful this is my career.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I was born and raised in Houston. My family is here and it feels like home. I wish I could control the rain, though! My entire calendar revolves around having room to move clients around to avoid bad weather.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.clairemcadamsphotography.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clairemcadamsphotography
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@clairetrips
