Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Richards.
Hi Erica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I discovered photography later in life. I worked most of my working life in the film industry and then as a graphic artist doing labeling for a cochlear implant company. I’ve had a lifelong passion to create art that “makes the heart sing”. So, when I bought my first professional camera and realized I could make that dream come true with photography, I made it my career. Ever since I have been “over the moon” going to work every day doing what I love most.
I specialize in equestrian and portrait photography. I have been horse crazy all my life and riding since I was a kid so it’s not surprising that I gravitate towards capturing that majestic beauty and special bond of horse and rider. I also know how hard it is to grow up feeling confident and beautiful so it is very special to me to get someone in front of my camera, let their inner soul shine through, and show them how beautiful and unique they are.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting your own business is definitely not a smooth road to success. If only I could just go out and photograph, process, and deliver the pictures to my clients. Word of mouth is great, but it’s not enough. There is something called marketing that is essential to getting those clients. That’s a tough road for me and I struggle with all the marketing chores and making sure I’m reaching out to the right people and speaking to their needs. Fortunately, I have a great support system in my coach and other photographers to help me through the trials of what works and what doesn’t. But I still have to do the work. Advertising and posting on social media is a must these days. While I do post regularly on social media, I know I have to post more. And with social media algorithms changing to favour more reels, I have to adapt. Social media is only one aspect of marketing and it’s one where I have no control as to who sees my posts. Email and blogs are not subject to the algorithms of social media so I’ve finally launched my email list and I’m close to launching my blogs. Unfortunately, audiences do not build overnight, it takes time to build that audience. But it’s worth the wait.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an equestrian and portrait photographer. I love to create beautiful portraits, whether it’s the special bond between horse and rider or capturing unique and beautiful personalities in timeless art. I find light captivating which is why I photograph almost exclusively at the golden hour – the hour or two before sunset when the light casts a softer, almost magical glow on my subjects. Using light to capture beauty and grace in both horses and people and creating portraits that have a little bit of magic is what makes my heart sing. I am also very proud that I am both an award-winning and published photographer. There are a lot of photographers to choose from but from what my clients say, my superpower is my calm aura, patience, and I’m fun to work with. And finding that great light! Lately, I am adding a bit of fine art and painterly touches to my photos; it can take even a beautiful photo to the next level.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I don’t have any favourites. I will watch podcasts semi-regularly when I think the subject will be informative and helpful. I really love to follow the journeys of my coaches and network of photographers. It’s always a learning experience and I get great ideas, however, what works for one photographer doesn’t necessarily work for another but it’s a great place to start and grow from.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ericarichardsphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericarichardsphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericarichardsphotography
Image Credits
Erica Richards Photography Patti Monson Photography
