Rising Stars: Meet Ryan Watkins of Clare

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Watkins

Hi Ryan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
While I was in middle school I started doing contests on a now defunct website called worth1000.com. I started by entering there Photoshop contests then switched over to there photography contests, where my entries did much better. I saved up money from mowing lawns to eventually buy more photography equipment. I was published in several magazines including the cover of Shutterbug Magazine back when I was in high school. After high school, I moved to Massachusetts and studied at the Hallmark Institute of Photography where I received the Highest Academic Honor.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
2020 was the hardest year on my photography business. Most weddings got canceled or had to find ways to accommodate social distancing with most guests attending virtually. I ended up working as a direct care worker during most of 2020 and 2021.

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?
When I first took interest in photography I mostly photographed nature and anything that would meander into my parents yard. During college I primarily focused on portraiture. Recently wedding and events have been the primary focus of my business. Graduating from the Hallmark Institute of Photography with the highest academic honor is still my greatest accomplishment. This formal education in photography is something I still cherish.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Being able to capture gesture in a photograph makes me happy. This is something which sets the image apart. It could be an expression, an action, the way the light kids the subject, etc. It’s what really makes a photograph great.

Pricing:

• Weddings $1500
• Family Portrait Session $400
• Engagement Session $300
• Senior Portait Session $300
• Modeling Sessions $300

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ryanwatkinsphotography.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanwatkinsphotography
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyanWatkinsPhotography/
• Twitter: https://x.com/rywatkinsphotos