Conversations with Caroline Hanson

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Caroline Hanson.

Hi Caroline, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I always loved the idea of photography since I was in my early teens. I took a photography class during my freshman and sophomore year, and it was the highlight of my day, but once I finished those two years of classes, I actually never thought about it anymore.

About 6 years ago I became a flight attendant, and I started taking photos on my layovers of all the cool places and things I was seeing. I decided to start an Instagram account called Hometowns. I gave it that name because I realized that all of these cities had things they were known for, and it was a way for me to showcase all the cool places around the USA (even if they aren’t well-known places).

From there, my love and passion for photography really took off, and I knew I wanted to get into equestrian photography because I had grown up riding horses, and it was a way to combine both of my passions. I’ve since started a new account, @Hanson3_Photography, and that has become my “baby,” if you will. It’s dedicated to horses and riders and all the disciplines I can get my hands on.

We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been completely smooth, but it hasn’t been too rough yet, as I am still getting started.

But I’m starting to see the challenges in the form of the immense amount of time you have to put into something you’re trying to create. I’m fortunate that I have a full-time job right now (flight attendant), so I’m not dependent on photography as my sole income, but I want to turn it into a successful business.

Right now, the part I struggle with the most is the behind-the-scenes work. Taking the photo is the easy part. But networking, getting a website set up, working through a business plan, and the financial and time costs that go into starting your own business can be extremely overwhelming.

Also knowing that there is so much that I don’t know, even when it comes to my camera and taking photos. It’s always a learning process, and to be successful, you do have to fail sometimes, and the fear of those failing moments can be stressful.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The work I’m most proud of is my equestrian photography. I specialize in action photography, trying to capture riders at the peak of their moment.

What I feel sets me apart is the close-up detail shots I take of riders. It’s not always a whole photo of them, but more a close-up of the intimate moments that happen in the span of a few seconds. And really trying to convey the intensity of the riders performing their sport.

Alright, so before we go, can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
To work with me, just reach out through a DM on my IG (@Hanson3_Photography) and I would love to collaborate with someone as well, it’s a great way to network, and learn. Support-wise, sharing my work where it can be seen by others.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/Hanson3_Photography and ttps://instagram.com/_Hometowns_