Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabrielle Spooner.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I knew I always wanted to take photos, that was something that came effortlessly to me. The label of being a photographer didn’t matter as much. I always liked the idea of people loving how they looked in a photo. Their smiles made me happy. I was never sure how to pursue being a photographer though. I had applied for so many internships never got the job. I was starting to feel discouraged and maybe this wasn’t for me. One day in 2016, I was on my lunch hour from my job at the mall. I ran into this man named Chief, he had the coolest delorean hat from back the future. He asked what I did, and I told him I was working at the mall but dreamed of becoming a photographer but was really struggling to find a internship. He told me to come join him and help do some behind the scenes photography on set of a music video. I went and my whole world changed. I knew I needed to pursue this full time. I eventually quit working at the mall, and worked for Chief part time. Things started to fall into place. Suddenly, I had the opportunity to shoot for several clothing companies, makeup companies, and men’s grooming products. I took every opportunity I got. Things seem to really start coming together. I quit working for Chief in 2017 and pursued my dream of freelancing. I still have Chief mentoring me.. After freelancing and working for several companies, I had been introduced to several influencers and I am now their personal photographer.
Has it been a smooth road?
Being a freelance photographer has definitely not been a smooth ride. There are months where you make more money one month than another. There are also times where you are put into positions when you don’t know how to do something but you have to figure it out. For me, that has turned into the most challenging and fun part of my job. I think the biggest struggle is breaking into a career where it is primarily dominated by men. But, my work speaks for itself. I will never let anyone put me down for who I am.
My advice young women starting their journey is : Don’t compare your work to anyone else’s. No one can do EXACTLY what you do.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Spoon Images Photography story. Tell us more about the business.
I am currently a freelance photographer working closely with social media influencers. I am most known for lifestyle and beauty portraits. I think I am different from other photographers because I always want to embrace the natural beauty of the person. I’m not satisfied unless my client is satisfied.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Sometimes, opportunities come up and they will not be able to pay you. Free work isn’t always bad. I have gotten some incredible opportunities from free work. I truly believe if you have the time you should take advantage, you never know who will be there.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.spoonimages.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spoonimages/
Image Credit:
Megs Cahill, Victor Ramos, Kameron Lester, Bo Rose, Brittany Glodean, Jordan Rich
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