Meet Mary Hurlbut

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Hurlbut.

Hi Mary, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey as a photographer started as a preteen when I was given my grandfather’s Brownie Box film camera. Through high school and majoring in Fine Arts in college, I always had a camera with me. I learned to just order proof sheets when having film developed and would then print only my best images….interesting how that has translated to digital photography: I now shoot all my images in “raw” format and then download them onto my computer. That folder of unprocessed images is my “proof sheet”. I then choose my favorite images to “develop” or edit. The process of editing takes more time then the actual portrait session and why it costs more to use a professional, yet the finished product is worth it. Why? Because you are not only paying for a photographer’s experience, skill using professional gear and software but also their artistic talent.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I finished college with a Fine Art Degree, but how do you make a living with that? Like many artists, I found myself in the food industry working as a waitress and took a stained glass class during my free time. Discovered I had a passion for it since it combined light, color and design – I found a stained glass studio that took me on as an unpaid apprentice for two years. Moving back home to Laguna Beach, I opened my own studio with a loan from my parents and the use of their garage. I was also blessed to get into the summer Sawdust Art Festival and meet my future husband. (Not only was he an artist but he’s an excellent business manager – another thing most artists need to be successful.)

Of course, during my career as a glass artist, I was still taking pictures with film, especially when we had our daughter and during family events and travels. I have boxes of prints sorted by date with my favorite images printed and framed. Everything changed when I was given my first DSLR camera – no more hours in the dark room with chemicals or paying film labs to develop my photos.

By 2008, my husband said it was time to cut costs and close our glass and sculpture studios. Great, because after years of working in one medium, I was bored as an artist, I dove into making a career as a digital photographer, I had the gear, I was taking courses from master photographers, I could work out of my home office….should be easy….um not quite.

I found myself competing with a growing number of young, tech-savvy men and women. Digital cameras and computer software were second nature for them. Also, it seemed everyone had a camera and then everyone had a cell phone camera!

What I’ve learned is we all have a different visions, styles and personality. My years of experience as an artist gave me an instinctive skill for light and composition, I’m also very comfortable working with all age groups and body types. I love finding the unique beauty in every person and bring that out in them. I learned to specialize and know when I’m not the right photographer for a job and have a list of trusted people I can recommend.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a lifelong resident and artist in Laguna Beach, I was delighted when eight years ago, the editor from StuNewsLaguna.com not only asked me to submit scenic photos for publication but asked if I would accept an unpaid, weekly photo assignment? I’m so glad I said yes. because having a weekly deadline refined my shooting style and editing. I’ve gotten very fast. (They also hired me, so that monthly paycheck is appreciated) Next, the PR has been priceless, I have name recognition throughout the town, having photographed mayors, shop owners, lawyers, Santa Claus, lifeguards, chefs, artists, etc. It’s been an honor and just plain fun. I feel connected with my hometown community.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Don’t give into fear. Let love be your first response.

I learned to work using just my 70-200mm telephoto lens as a photojournalist and portrait photographer. I could stay outside the required 6 ft distance. Since most families we home all together, I offered 10 min front door portraits.

Pricing:

• 20 min Portrait Session in Laguna Beach $145. Quick and painless – a favorite for men, teens and toddlers. With an online gallery for prints. Download single, digital images for $8 each or all images for only $115.00.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.maryhurlbutphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagunabeachphotographer/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaryHurlbut.LagunaBeachPhotographer/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mary-hurlbut-laguna-beach-photographer-laguna-beach