We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sarah Gump. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sarah below.

Alright, Sarah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

When I first started photographing landscapes, it was with a point and shoot camera. I started out photographing interesting lighting, water, sunsets, and such and I was so drawn to it that I was always on the lookout for a DSLR that would help me capture things better and with more detail. I bought my first used Nikon D3300 DSLR in 2014 and most of my work so far was from that camera. Trial and repetition was my path to photography. I joined a photography club and tried to surround myself with people that encouraged me to keep at it.

I had no desire to speed up this process. This is a totally organic passion of mine that I’m really grateful to have to opportunity to grow into.

The skill that helped me the most was a healthy sense of adventure. Some of the greatest shots that I ever took were in adverse weather or between storm systems. Most of the time I am driving to a place before the sun is up and leaving after the sun has gone down.

The only obstacle that has ever stood in my way is myself. My own fear of being rejected or fear of not meeting some unattainable expectation. Fear can keep you from learning, achieving and growing. I’m learning that fear doesn’t serve me.

I think staying curious is an affective antidote for fear.

Sarah , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I created Gumpshawphotos Fine Art Landscape Photography to share my art with people. A key part of my business model is to provide Fine Art Landscape Photography to as many people as I can. I do this by keeping my prices attainable for as many people as I can. I work with clients and their budgets to make sure that they are getting the best possible product that is within reach for them.
I print my images on canvas, aluminum, as well as traditional matted and framed pieces. This method gives me more flexibility in my production cost so I can reach a wider array of clients.

I am most proud of the partnerships that I have with our local businesses here in Durango, Colorado. My work is on display at the Durango Art Center, Durango Treasures on Main Ave, and the Durango Train Museum. It is extremely rewarding to work with such great people and organizations.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Most of my work so far has been done with a used Nikon D3300 with only 4 working focus points. The tripod that I use is not professional grade at all and with no formal training, some of the best images that I have produced have been by sheer luck.

I say these things not to bring myself down, but to illustrate that top of the line equipment doesn’t always translate to top of the line images.

That’s never been my drive.

What drives me is the adventure that results in these images and the story that they tell.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of what I do is connecting with people through my art. Making that connection is something that is done without words, without bias and without judgment. That connection is everything to me and partnering with local businesses allows me to do that even more.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gumpshawphotos.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/gumpshawphotos
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/gumpshawphotos