8 Insights from a Photographer's Mentoring Session

Styles: Earthy, Wild and Bohemian Season: Summer
Submitted by: Kelsey Dawn Photography

From the moment we saw this bohemian and earthy styled engagement shoot in a secret location in Boulder Colorado, we knew we had to share it! What’s more, these summer photos were captured by photographer Kelsey Dawn during a mentoring session she won. Below she answers eight questions from their session and advice to couples dreaming of doing an intimate photoshoot.

How did the engagement shoot come to be?

Macy Frances (photographer) was having a giveaway and I decided to enter. The prize was for a 1.5 hour mentoring session. I entered because I LOVE everything she stands for and her brand. She has the most beautiful warm, glowing tones in her work and her images express pure joy when it comes to her couples and clients. Macy was fantastic with arranging plans, location and even went all out and made the session a styled couple shoot. It was the session of my dreams as a mentee.

What was it like shooting on the day?

The weather couldn’t have been better! There were storms all around us and we were in an untouched bubble. The fields were so green, and the sky was dark and menacing but wonderful. The contrast of the couple’s outfit and scenery against it was to die for. It looked like something out of a movie!

Why were you so keen to win this mentoring session?

The main reasons I wanted to do this session was to learn more about this field, what I can do to spice things up, find my edge, and begin to dabble in intimate weddings and elopements! I have always loved love and couples are the way to my heart. It was only fitting to move towards these types of shoots in future.

What specifics did she share with you during the mentoring session?

Shooting during the session was such a great experience. Macy did her thing, showed me how she poses, directs her clients and gets the shot. She kept it flowing and super fun. Macy even let me test out her lens’s, camera and flash so I could get a feel for upgrading my equipment. Then, after everything, she was so sweet and showed me how she edits in addition to answering any questions I had about the business, challenges, things to be aware of, etc. Macy really pours her heart and soul into her work and it shows. I am forever blessed and grateful to have had the opportunity to be mentored by her!

What advice would you give to other photographers trying to find the right mentor?

That’s a great question! I would say to look for someone that you can relate to work wise and values wise. I previously mentioned that she pours her heart and soul into her work and that is what I am all about as well. Also find someone that is there to empower their clients. I remember asking Macy to tell me one thing she hopes her clients get out of her sessions and it’s to become empowered and know their worth. HOW BEAUTIFUL?! It’s really about what you’re wanting to learn and who you’re wanting to learn from.

How would you describe your style of photography?

I’d describe my style of shooting as earthy and vibrant. I try to make my photos look as realistic and full of emotion as possible. I love this style because it’s the style I wish to incorporate into more of my work.

What was your biggest takeaway from this experience?

That’s so hard! I have so many! If I must pick one, I would say how Macy treats her clients and wants that empowerment as mentioned above. Empowering others is at the core of what I do with photography. I want my clients to walk away feeling even more in love with each other, beautiful, handsome, at peace, and loving who they truly are. We all tend to be picky about our flaws and imperfections, yet we don’t realize those are the most unique and beautiful pieces about ourselves. I want my clients to see how they look through my lens, how wonderful they really are.

For couples who are reading, what advice would you give them about doing an intimate engagement shoot and how to prepare?

My answer is similar to the one about finding a mentor for photographers. Research and learn about your photographer, what their values are, what they stand for and look through their work. Also, read reviews! Those are real people who have worked with them and have firsthand experience. Lastly, look for a photographer that brings up emotion for you when you view their work. You must have a connection with their work or else there isn’t that added spark. To get the most out of your shoot, I would have a location locked down, permits figured out if that is an issue, coordinate outfits, and share ideas of some inspiration that you hope to get from the shoot with your photographer. Communication is the best way to make the most of your time. When you are at your session, enjoy your time and just be yourself. I know it can feel a little awkward to be intimate with a camera in your face, but I am (and any other photographer) is there to be your number one fan and hype-man. You have plenty of time to walk around and get that ‘shot’ so be as present as you can be.