Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Parsons.
Hi Danielle, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When I was about 12, I found my mom’s old Canon AE-1 that she had from high school lying around. I never thought about photography before, but I thought the camera looked so cool. We went and got it fixed up, and I was hooked from there. I was fortunate enough that my High School offered film photography classes, so I was able to hone in on my craft.
Fast forward to my 16th-ish birthday, I got a Nikon D50 for my birthday. I started bringing it to local shows around where I’m from (Bucks County/Doylestown, PA) and people were really into it. I was just a teenager having fun, not doing anything serious. Apparently I captured some very legendary shows back in the day- but I had no idea at that time. It’s funny to look back on!
I moved to LA in 2016 and have been freelancing ever since then!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has absolutely not been a smooth road LOL. I’ve had some ecommerce and studio photography jobs that really burnt me out. I had it in my head that photography had to be my full time job, or else I wasn’t a “real photographer”. I decided to just freelance while having a side gig, which has allowed me to focus on the things I’m passionate about, photography wise. It’s also been very, very slow. I’d argue that 2025 has been my absolute worst year freelance wise. Anytime there’s a dip, I get very hard on myself and want to quit. I think it’s pretty normal to feel that way. It’s also normal to not be busy all the time. It will always ebb and flow.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I primarily specialize in behind the scenes, portrait, and concert photography all within the music scene. It’s hard for me to say what I’m known for, I think I’d have to ask other people that. What am I the most proud of? Anytime someone tells me I’ve inspired them to pick up a camera, or my photos have had a positive impact on them. There’s nothing really like that.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
First of all, I’m incredibly lucky that I’ve had support had from my parents throughout my career. I am very privileged in that respect and I know it’s played a role in my success. They’re my biggest cheerleaders.
Second of all, the music scene I grew up in also played a big role in my success. I had no idea at the time that my friends bands would become some of the biggest in music. They’ve let me come along for the ride and I’ll always be thankful for that. I don’t think that’s something I’ll ever get used to. I’m constantly in awe of their talents and accomplishments.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.danielleparsonsphotography.com/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babiidanii
Image Credits
Portrait of myself: Walter Delgado
