Today we’d like to introduce you to Miriam Brummel.
Miriam, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Born in Pasadena, CA I grew up in a creative family and received my first camera at age 8. I recall taking it to Disneyland and photographed EVERYTHING. At 12 years old I would photograph the local farmer’s markets while my mom shopped and around that time I entered my first photo contest. By my early teen years, I had my work on display at the Glendale public library and was totally hooked on creating images.
I began to study photography at The Armory Center for the Arts in high school, continued at Pasadena City College, and ultimately received my degree in 2008 from Sonoma State University. My education was vast but completely analog based and after college I found myself burnt out and living in a digital world. I took a break for a couple years but still felt the itch to document, to see light, to see life.
In 2010 I was back in LA with a myriad of musical friends and family. Embedded in the music scene, I got myself a digital camera and started shooting again and was instantly hooked on live music photography. In 2011 I started working under the moniker Even Keel Imagery and began to dabble with more portraiture. I continued to submit work and showed in coffee shops, small galleries, and music festivals around the city.
Around the same time, I was connected with Callaway Gable, a reputable wedding photography studio. They took me under their wing and gave me the digital training I needed to work in a professional capacity. After a good run with them decided it was time to take the leap and start my own business and wedding brand- Even Keel Weddings.
In 2018 I’m still completely in love with photography and my work and business are very diverse. I shoot couples, fashion, live music, lifestyle, and my adoration for the film is still very strong! No matter the type of photography session- setting an intention and leaning into empowerment are the foundations of my practice. I’m so grateful and proud to craft a business that is true to me.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest struggle was getting out of college in 2008, moving back to LA and being totally clueless in the digital photography world. I was burnt out, had no photography community in LA, and didn’t have the skills to create the photos that I wanted to make. Defeat would be an understatement.
I overcame this and now the obstacles are not so ominous. Dealing with taxes, insurance, finances, marketing, social media and all the other hats you have to wear as a business owner can feel really overwhelming and intimidating at times but ultimately worth it to pursue my creative endeavors.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Even Keel Imagery and Even Keel Weddings – what should we know?
Whether photographing a couple in love, a rising rock star, or a badass entrepreneur- client experience is key. I create an environment of trust and comfort; together we establish goals, expectations, and intentions. Empowering purpose diminishes vulnerability and fear, allowing creativity, authenticity, and fun to thrive!
The images themselves are vibrant, bold, and often tell a story of a moment in time. My holistic approach to photographing people and my eclectic background are what set me apart.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
It takes a village, doesn’t it? Many have cheered me on but three names come to mind to whom I’m eternally grateful:
Sean Erickson, my favorite second shooter and also my Fiancé. His encouragement and support are unparalleled and he’s now an integral facet of Even Keel Weddings. I couldn’t run my business without him and it certainly wouldn’t be as fun!
My brother Daniel Brummel- a lifelong supportive presence. His encouragement was particularly imperative during those challenging years after college. He brought me into the Los Angeles music scene and encouraged me to keep creating and find joy in the process. He also fostered the importance of intention in my work (and life).
Lastly, my dear friend Alyssa LeCompte who encourages me to continue shooting for the sake of my spirit. Beyond that, she’s been a huge help with aspects of running a business that is not as intuitive as creating the art.
Pricing:
- Portrait sessions start at $150.00
- Weddings photography start at $2750
Contact Info:
- Website: www.evenkeelimagery.com and www.evenkeelweddings.com
- Phone: 6263908093
- Email: miriambrummel@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/evenkeelimagery www.instagram.com/evenkeelweddings
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/evenkeelimagery www.facebook.com/envenkeelweddings
Image Credit:
Jaclyn Szabo
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