We were lucky to catch up with Connor Lewis recently and have shared our conversation below.
Connor, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
From Zoology Graduate to Photography Passion: A Story of Parental Influence
Throughout my life, my parents have been the guiding force that shaped not only my perception of the world but also influenced my career trajectory. Their support and influence, far beyond the lens of a camera, have been pivotal in shaping the person I am today. Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from Michigan State University, I’ve come to realize the profound impact of their encouragement to excel and pursue my interests.
Growing up, my mother ran her own photography business, and her camera was an extension of herself. Whether it was family gatherings, sports events, or impromptu moments, she was always there, capturing the essence of life.
My deep-seated love for animals, nature, and conservation has been a constant in my life. However, the idea of encapsulating this passion through photography initially seemed surreal to me. The exhilaration I felt when my mother gifted me my first DSLR, the Canon Rebel T5, at the age of 15 was indescribable.
My father, with his easy going yet supportive demeanor, played a significant role in nurturing my love for wildlife. Together, we’d bond over watching National Geographic and Discovery channel on Saturday mornings. His loving and caring approach provided me with more than I could have ever asked for as a child.
The genuine relationship I shared with my parents, devoid of pressure to conform to their expectations, allowed me to explore my creativity freely. Their support paved the way for who I am today, not only in terms of my career but also in my outlook on life and my strong work ethic.
While I am still navigating the growth of my photography business and have yet to reach my ultimate goals, the values instilled by my parents continue to guide me. Their nurturing influence has allowed me to embrace creativity and pursue my passions with unwavering determination, fostering a deeper appreciation for life’s moments and opportunities.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Hello there! I’m a 23-year-old photographer who ventured into the world of professional photography in 2018. My journey into this craft has been driven by an unyielding work ethic focused on crafting memorable experiences for my clients.
My portfolio offers an array of services tailored to meet diverse needs. From capturing the spirited essence of high school and college seniors to freezing precious moments in engagements, baby milestones, and beyond, my aim is to immortalize these cherished moments through my lens.
I go beyond just delivering digital images; I also offer prints, ensuring that my clients have tangible memories to hold on to. Moreover, I’ve introduced a relaxed and welcoming environment into my sessions. My secret weapons? Dad jokes and an innate ability to put anyone at ease, making them feel comfortable in their own skin.
Addressing client concerns is a priority for me. Whether it’s clarifying pricing or having contingency plans for inclement weather during a session, I ensure that my clients feel heard and their worries are addressed.
What sets me apart from other photographers is my youthful vigor and determination to carve out a unique experience for my clients. I infuse a personal touch into every interaction, striving to make the journey from the initial contact to the final product a seamless and enjoyable experience.
My passion for photography initially sprouted from a love of nature. This foundation has instilled in me a profound appreciation for capturing the beauty of the natural world and has seamlessly transitioned into capturing the raw emotions and beauty of humanity.
What I’m most proud of is my ability to merge my passion for nature with the art of capturing human emotions. I believe this unique perspective allows me to create evocative and authentic images that resonate deeply with my clients.
Ultimately, I want potential clients and followers to know that my brand isn’t just about photography; it’s about encapsulating the essence of life’s fleeting moments and transforming them into timeless treasures that can be cherished for a lifetime. I am committed to delivering not just images, but an experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Absolutely, as a creative in photography, there are aspects of my journey that might be challenging for non-creatives to fully grasp. One of the most significant elements is the intrinsic connection between passion and the pursuit of art.
While I’ve delved into professional photography at a relatively young age and have quickly built a diverse portfolio since 2018, the essence of my work extends beyond just capturing moments. It’s about creating an immersive experience for my clients—an experience that resonates on a deeper level.
Non-creatives might find it difficult to understand the emotional investment that goes into every photograph. It’s not merely about technical skills or clicking a camera; it’s about being able to elicit emotions, capture the essence of a moment, and preserve it in a frame.
What sets me apart isn’t just my services or offerings; it’s the drive to make every session a personalized and meaningful journey. From high school seniors to business professionals, each client represents an opportunity to connect, evoke genuine emotions, and immortalize them in their purest form.
For non-creatives, understanding the depth of this passion and the desire to make an impact through art might be a challenge. But it’s this very passion that fuels my work, driving me to showcase the world’s beauty and humanity in a way that words often cannot express.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Certainly, my photography journey is driven by a deep purpose that starts with my love for capturing the beauty of nature. It’s really special to have a strong love for capturing what truly touches your heart—a feeling that’s not so common.
I began this journey because I deeply loved nature. This passion soon turned into a love for photography, sparking a fire within me. The happiness I felt in capturing the amazing beauty of nature encouraged me to explore emotions in human life too.
What truly motivates me is exploring the world fully—the good things, the not-so-good things, and everything in between. I’m excited about showing this diverse world to everyone through my camera. I think by highlighting the different parts of our planet, I can make others appreciate how amazing it is.
Also, my biggest goal is to make a difference, even if it’s just in one person’s life. I want to capture and express human emotions, highlighting the good in everyone. I really believe that through my photos, I can help others love and appreciate the wonderful Earth and the beauty found in people.
My journey in photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about sharing my passion and inspiring others to see the world as a beautiful and incredible place. I’m working to show the fascinating sides of our world and people, aiming to create a sense of wonder and connection in everyone who sees my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: connorjamesphotography.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/connorjamesphotography
Image Credits
My personal photo is taken by Lizzie DeWilde: https://www.chelseadevlaminck.com/