Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Southard.
Hi Adam, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was an actor headshot photographer in Los Angeles for over a decade. When lockdown began in 2020, we missed being able to visit our family here in Michigan and moved back home.
I still love taking actor headshots, but being here in Michigan has inspired me to branch out. Since being home, I’ve taken many senior portraits in Okemos, Haslett and Brighton, graduation photos at MSU and UofM, family portraits at Lake Lansing and even wedding photos.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve always taken photos, but it wasn’t until I was let go during the housing crash of 08 that I became a full time photographer. At the time, my wife was six months pregnant and I had to choose between another corporate job I did not enjoy or pursuing my dreams. I bought my first digital camera with my severance money and shortly thereafter began shooting for Pasadena Magazine.
Over the years, I built up a portfolio of regular clients which kept me busy. I look forward to establishing myself here to the point where word of mouth and returning clients fill my schedule. Starting over is always a struggle but I’m excited for the challenge.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My years of experience taking portraits for celebrities and magazines certainly helps me stand out, but if I have a speciality, it’s working with people who say “I hate having my photo taken.” I like to keep my photoshoots casual and comfortable so that we can always get a great shot.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I’m not sure I’m in a position to offer advice regarding building a business here in Michigan. I’m more in the listening and learning phase with regards to that.
I do have plenty of suggestions, however, for someone simply interested in photography. If you want to improve your photos, throw a portrait party for your friends. Have a gathering and take tons of solo and couple portraits of people you love. Shoot in manual mode and experiment. You’ll learn what works and what doesn’t in a safe, consequence-free environment. In the end, you and your friends will have fun photos to keep forever and you will have learned a few tricks.
Pricing:
- I have set prices listed on my website, but I am always open to discussing options.
- 200 – two look portrait session
- 300 – senior portraits
- 300 family portraits
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.BestMIPortraits.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestmiportraits/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BestMIPortraits/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamemperorsouthard/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/best-mi-portraits-haslett
Image Credits
All photos taken and owned by Adam Emperor Southard of www.BestMIPortraits.com
