Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Watkins.
Hi Ryan, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I first started to take interest in photography when I was in late middle school. A friend of mine from church told me about the non defunct website worth1000.com. I started entering their photoshop contests but my entries did poorly. I decided to pick up my mom’s Kodak Easyshare and try their photography contests. This got me into photography. I saved up money from mowing lawns to by a used Nikon D40 DSLR and some used refurbished lenses. I started photographing as many things as I could. I was published in several magazines while still in high school. After high school I went to the Hallmark Institute of Photography in Turners Falls, Massachusetts where I studied under photographers like Gregory Heisler and David Turner. I graduated with the Highest Academic Honor and have run my photography business in Michigan since then.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There have been many struggles. The pandemic was a big one. Photography was my main source of income pre-pandemic but since I have worked other jobs in addition to photography.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As my career as went on the subjects I photograph have changed. When I started out it was mostly wildlife and landscapes. In college I focused mostly on portraiture. Recently it is most events and weddings. The unifying factor in my work is looking for gesture. Gesture is what takes a photograph to the next level. It could be an expression, emotion, or movement in a photograph.
What matters most to you?
Being able to do meaningful work which creates positive change in local communities is most important to me. Much of this work is done via the non-profit JCI Michigan and it’s various local chapters.
Pricing:
- Weddings $1500
- Seniors $300
- Families $400
- Headshots $300 for group
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ryanwatkinsphotography.net
- Instagram: ryanwatkinsphotography
- Facebook: ryanwatkinsphotography
