Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Leidy. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Amanda, thanks for joining 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?

Photography can be learned in so many different ways. in my opinion, theres no WRONG way to do it. I’m really grateful I had the opportunity to learn through experience. Sometimes things doesn’t turn out exactly like I hoped, but I truly think I learned how to do my craft the best by learning on the go and adapting to each environment.

I do wish I had spent more time consulting others who were more experienced than me, and was more open to advice. I started photography at such a young age (12!) and I was blind to how valuable it is to be humble, and receive constructive criticism.

Being able to be very flexible and willing to try new things is your greatest asset going into photography. I am always inspired by how circumstances can change, and sometimes things turn out better than you ever hoped! I believe If you are willing to make mistakes, you can truly learn and grow into a very well rounded artist.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I started photography when I was very young. Someone in my family bought me a small “point and shoot” camera and i just took off with it. I carried it everywhere, and photographed things that didn’t even make sense- like sticks, walls, you name it! I wasn’t doing it for anything or anyone, I just genuinely loved it. I had my first paid photoshoot when i was thirteen or fourteen. It was for an up-and-coming race car driver, on my first DSLR camera that I had never even touched before the day of the shoot. I loved it, and I really believed there was nothing else I would ever want to do. I’m so thankful for my parents who were willing to invest in something I truly loved. They never told me I couldn’t do it, and I realize now how special that was.

I have tried nearly every avenue of photography. I do not really limit myself to one particular “type” of photography, but I most enjoy editorial travel, documentary, and portrait photography. This means working with brands, products, models or individuals, and traveling capturing history as it is being made.
I am so proud of where photography has taken me. I’ve been honored to travel to Europe documenting group excursions, backpack through Spain, hang and sell my art in exhibits in Brooklyn, New York, fundraise for local theaters by auctioning off my photos, represent brands, and so many other incredible things I never thought I’d be able to do!

I am now 25, married, and a mom to two boys. They inspire me every day to continue doing what I am passionate about! I am so glad I can continue doing something I love with them along side me.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a wife, mom, and Christian I am really passionate about photographing the world from a particular point of view. I do my best to shoot with intention. From massive waterfalls and cityscapes, to people, animals, and beaches, so much of our surroundings are overlooked and often taken for granted. I hope my photos help people see how fortunate we are to live on a planet surrounded by such incredible places and people.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Growing my clientele has always been a difficult thing for me! I struggle to put myself out there, and really “sell” myself. I recently undertook a mentorship and it really changed my perspective on how I value my work. I truly think if you value your work and time, you should charge an amount that reflects that value. Once i was no longer afraid to share my prices and say no to people who were not willing to pay it, I feel like my brand truly grew, and the right clients began to find me! long story short, don’t be afraid to advertise yourself and what you do for the price you charge. The right clients will be willing to pay you what you’re worth!   

Contact Info:

• Website: amandacleidy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandacleidy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066985073995
• Pinterest: https://pin.it/2dN74h2

Image Credits
Amanda Leidy Photography