We were lucky to catch up with Cari Maconochie recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Cari thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My journey into photography has been guided by a combination of early interests, professional experiences, and a genuine love for capturing the essence of life. I turned my passion into a career that brings joy to others and is a testament to the profound impact that photography can have on people’s lives.
My interest in photography started at a young age, burning through disposable cameras as a child. This early exposure planted the seeds for a lifelong passion. In college, co-teaching glass blowing and realizing my love for teaching art likely contributed to my ability to create a positive and interactive experience during photoshoots. The skills I gained in teaching have enhanced my ability to guide and engage my clients.
After college I taught Art and coached girls soccer at a local Middle School. While I was coaching soccer, my interest grew toward capturing action shots. This shift highlights the transformative power of discovering and pursuing one’s true passion.
Then, having my first child brought about my desire to capture every stage of my son’s life with artistic precision. So, I bought my first professional camera. I have a deep emotional connection to my photos and I wanted to make each one perfect to preserve those special moments in a way that goes beyond ordinary cellphone snapshots.
I started Cari Mac Photography in 2019 to transition from capturing moments of my own family to helping other parents document their memories of loved ones. I feel so much joy and fulfillment derived from contributing to the lasting memories of others through fine arts photography.
I love the excitement and joy I feel during each photoshoot. I genuinely love the process of creating images. I make each session fun and interactive. I am committed to providing a positive experience for both children and parents. My focus is on capturing authentic moments of laughter, smiles, and personality to reveal a deep understanding of the power of genuine emotions in photography. This approach contributes to the timeless and heartfelt nature of my work. I finally found my niche that fits my passions and strengths.
Cari, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I engage with each client on an individual basis, inquiring about their unique narrative. This personalized approach enables me to tailor each photo shoot to their distinct personality, emphasizing their connections with loved ones. The privilege of being entrusted to document their lives and capture timeless memories is a responsibility I hold in high regard.
Facilitating a sense of confidence during the photo shoot is paramount. Acknowledging that my clients may not be accustomed to modeling, I provide thoughtful guidance on posing and incorporate prompts that elicit genuine laughter and play, creating an atmosphere that reflects the authenticity of their relationships.
Presently, I offer digital prints, complemented by the option for clients to purchase professional prints through my website. As part of my ongoing business development, I am actively working on expanding the array of in-house print option orders to enhance convenience for my clients.
One of my proudest achievements lies in curating a gallery of exquisite images from each session. Consistently achieving “THE” shot (and at times, more than one) during every session elicits a gratifying adrenaline rush. Witnessing the emotional impact on parents when they view these moments is a source of profound satisfaction.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
In light of my profound passion for photography and a genuine desire to assist others, my extensive 14-year experience in teaching has equipped me with invaluable qualities. These attributes have instilled in me the confidence to adeptly navigate challenges and engage with young subjects during photoshoots. Despite my initial reservations about formalizing my passion into a business venture, the unwavering support and encouragement from my family, particularly my sister-in-law, played an instrumental role in propelling me forward.
My family’s support extended beyond mere encouragement; they actively contributed to the establishment of my photography business. Their assistance encompassed setting up my garage studio, facilitating my initial outreach for models on social media, and aiding in the organization of my service offerings on my website. Notably, Rose, my sister-in-law, emphasized the importance of authenticity in promotional content, dispelling the notion that a perfectly curated appearance is a prerequisite for success. Her impromptu decision to film a reel on the spot proved to be a pivotal moment that garnered substantial support, compelling me to confront my apprehensions and wholeheartedly embark on this entrepreneurial journey.
Despite my initial reluctance, I heeded my sister-in-law’s advice on pricing, a counsel rooted in her success managing two thriving businesses. To fortify this decision, I delved into the insights offered by Megan Dipiero’s “She Sells.” Strikingly, the parallels between the wisdom shared by Megan and Rose were unmistakable, reinforcing the imperative of recognizing and asserting one’s true worth. Megan’s empowering narrative encouraged me to embrace financial prosperity while continuing to serve clients from many walks of life.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
The arduous post-production process involved in crafting compelling visual narratives often goes unnoticed by the public. Editing each photo is a meticulous endeavor, requiring significant time and skill. From enhancing environmental aesthetics to seamlessly merging images, the artistry involved is extensive. Noteworthy challenges, such as photographing uncooperative toddlers or creating composite images, underscore the dedication and mastery required to produce impeccable results.
Years of persistent practice, supplemented by continuous learning through classes and online resources, have honed my skills. The craft of capturing exceptional moments demands more than a casual approach; it necessitates the orchestration of perfect lighting, creative angles, and a keen eye for detail. The inherent uniqueness of my work, unattainable through a mere cellphone, adds an extra layer of significance to the art I create.
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