The experiences we create as photographers may end up sparking a desire to pursue something new for our clients. At least that's the story for this photographer! I love our Student Spotlights and today's does not disappoint. Introducing Erin Thompson of Erin Thompson Photography! She was raised in Cleveland, OH and currently resides in New Mexico. Although she was semi-interested in photography in middle school, it was the experience she had with her wedding photographer that did her in! Let this student spotlight remind you just how impactful your passion really is.

Tell me a little about your photography business!

My business has been a long time coming, but I officially launched in June 2021. I currently shoot families (young kiddos are my favorite!), engagements, and maternity, though I am interested in working with seniors in the future as well.

What started your photography journey?

We had such a great experience with our wedding photographer and I thought he had such a cool job. After we got married, we moved to Montana, which is easily the most beautiful place I've ever been. During our time there, I got my first (and second!) DSLR, learned to shoot in manual, and was first introduced to Lightroom. Knowing that we'd be there for a limited time, I wanted to capture our experience as best as I could. In addition to stunning landscapes and wildlife, I started to dabble with portraits as well. A few squadron friends asked me to do Christmas card and senior photos, and I was also obsessed with capturing the details of my first baby.

Fast forward to the fall of 2020… I was forced to take two weeks of furlough from my full-time job as a result of the pandemic, so I spent one of the weeks taking an online photography course. By the end of the first week, I knew I wanted to start my own business. It took me about 8 months to learn enough about the business side of things and make everything official, but I launched Erin Thompson Photography on June 13, 2021 and haven't looked back!

What is your favorite thing about running a photography business?

I'm a sentimental person in general, but especially when it comes to my kids! I want to capture every little detail even in the hard seasons because I know I'm going to miss these days even just a few months from now – let alone in the years to come! I love that my business allows me to do exactly this for other families as well. Working with young military families is my absolute favorite because I relate to them so well and I know firsthand many of the challenges that come with military life. I love being able to serve them and connect with them while we're stationed in the same place.

What is something you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Honestly, I'm proud that I had the courage (and the support from my family) to make ETP a reality! It's been over 7 years since I first thought about doing this and it was no easy feat to get it up and running. Seriously, who decides to start a business in the middle of a global pandemic!? The fact that I've had as many paid sessions as I have in the last three months is just icing on the cake!

If you could tell your past self one thing, what would it be?

Don't give up if there is something that you want. Even if it's going to take a long time, stick to it. There will always be excuses, but there is almost always a way to better manage your time to prioritize your dreams and make them a reality.

Where can we find Erin Thompson of Erin Thompson Photography?

+ Website

+ Instagram

+ Facebook

Don’t forget to check out other recent Student Spotlights!