We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Crystal Smiley a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Crystal, thanks for taking the time to share your stories 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?
I never really thought I could see myself as a photographer until I picked up a camera in college as a requirement. It did not take long for me to fall in love, capturing people within their element however, it was not an overnight committed decision. It took five years later when I was suggest to help step-in for a photo shoot that I decided from that experience, I could further this love of photography to the next level and build my craft around it.
I think the biggest learning process of becoming a photographer is networking. Getting involved with local events, collaborating with other photographers, stylist and makeup artist truly helps move you. If I had the confidence that I have now back then, I definitely think I could be further along in my photography.
I think the key essential skills that any photographer should have is 1. A camera ( if you don’t have a camera, why are you a photographer). 2. A keen-eye for perspective. 3. Accountability/ A good support team (you will run into burn out or a creative block so, it’s always best to have friends/people in your corner. Finally 4. A Pinterest account. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve run into a creative block and I turned to Pinterest for inspiration and motivation.
Crystal, 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?
My name is Crystal Smiley, raised and still living in the great city of Houston, Texas (Are there anymore of us still?). I grew up on the north side of the city with the mindset and determination of becoming a digital artist no matter what. After I developed a passion for digital media at a local college institution, I shifted my focus to graphic design and fashion photography. I’m currently a full-time graphic designer by day but, my main focus is building my clientele with local models, who are looking to build their fashion portfolio as a photographer.
I think the thing that makes me proud of who I am and what I do as a photographer, is the ability to see how far I’ve grown in my craft. The dedication of never giving up on the goals and ambitions I set for myself. This really helps me improve my skill set and look back on how far I’ve come.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being creative in your experience?
The most rewarding feeling about being a creative is truly connecting with other creatives, having the opportunity to showcase my work through interviews (such as this) and seeing the love that people offer you on social media platforms. There is no other greater feeling of building a positive connection with local models and other photographers too!
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
One word consistency. Even when you don’t feel like it, do it! Reach out to those people, continue to make connections. I can not tell you how many tell me everyday that social media is a “consistency game.” The more you interact and post, the more followers and opportunities you get.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.crystalsmileyphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalsmileyphotography/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/crystalnsmiley
Image Credits
Models: Christina Porter: https://instagram.com/christinaporterj Courtney Randolph: https://instagram.com/thecourtneyrandolphh Amir Strong: https://instagram.com/amirthestrong Martrell Royal: https://instagram.com/royaltvs4 Sydney Renee: https://instagram.com/greeneyedmonsterrr Deirdre JohnBaptiste: https://instagram.com/mindofvagabond Preshus Guide: https://instagram.com/preshusguide Linda Fuentes: https://instagram.com/_lindafuentes