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

Emma, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Everyone has crazy stuff happen to them, but often small business owners and creatives, artists and others who are doing something off the beaten path are often hit with things (positive or negative) that are so out there, so unpredictable and unexpected. Can you share a crazy story from your journey?

In 2018, I had an unforgettable experience that forever solidified my passion for photography. It all happened during a Gregory Alan Isakov concert at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater. Initially, I had planned to attend the concert purely as a fan, savoring the music alongside my best friend under the twinkling stars. However, fate had other plans for me. At the very last minute, I was approved for a photopass, opening up a world of opportunity.

As I began snapping away, I decided to focus my lens on the opening act, Patty Griffin, little knowing that she was a Grammy Award-winning artist. Patty put on a mesmerizing show that left the audience in awe. I couldn’t have been more thrilled with the photos I captured, and was looking forward to sitting in front of my laptop to edit.

Shortly after uploading my coverage of the concert to my publication, I received an unexpected email from Patty Griffin’s manager. They expressed interest in purchasing one of the photos I had taken of her. It was my first time selling a photo to an artist, and the sheer excitement of having my work appreciated to this extent was overwhelming. As our communication continued, it was decided that my photograph would be used as artwork for Patty Griffin’s upcoming album. I eagerly anticipated the day I would see it in real life.

That moment finally arrived on the day of the album’s release. I went to my local Barnes & Noble with my mom, and there, in the record section, I found the self-titled Patty Griffin album. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw my name, Emma Watts, right alongside my photo on an album cover, available for sale in a store. It was a surreal and gratifying moment that reminded me of the incredible journey that photography always takes me on.

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’m a passionate freelance photographer hailing from the vibrant city of Tulsa, Oklahoma. With eight years of experience behind the lens, I’ve honed my craft and developed a keen eye for capturing moments throughout the entertainment scene. I’m dedicated to forging meaningful connections with my clients, ensuring that every image captured tells a unique and compelling story. I specialize in shooting lifestyle scenes, live music events, and electrifying music festivals. Capturing the energy and emotions of these moments is a true passion, allowing me to freeze time and preserve the magic of these experiences.

In addition to my photography journey, I’m also proud to be the co-founder of a dynamic music publication,
Honey Punch Mag. This exciting venture has allowed me to combine my love for visual storytelling with my deep appreciation for music, creating a platform that celebrates the artistic synergy between sound and image.

Beyond these creative pursuits, I’m the owner of a small business called Future Freaks Co, where I curate and offer a distinctive selection of vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories. What makes this venture even more special is that I set up and sell at vintage markets across the Midwest, connecting with fellow enthusiasts and sharing stories about all the treasures we’ve collected.

I’m fortunate to come from a family unit full of artists, and feel lucky to be creating alongside them – a seamstress, stained glass artist, handmade jeweler, graphic designer, and literature teacher. This creative synergy adds a unique dimension to my own work, enriching my creative journey and bringing fresh perspectives to every endeavor. Whether through my photography, my work with Honey Punch Mag, or vintage market adventures, I’m dedicated to creating meaningful experiences and sharing the beauty of life’s diverse tapestry.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One crucial lesson I’ve had to unlearn on my creative journey revolves around self-worth and the concept of being seen, particularly in the context of charging for my photography services. For a long time, I grappled with the belief that it was somehow wrong or presumptuous to charge appropriately for photoshoots. I used to undervalue my work, offering my services at little to no cost, thinking that because I was having fun and doing something that didn’t feel like traditional “work,” it meant I shouldn’t be charging for it. However, this approach eventually led to overextending myself and spending countless hours editing and preparing for shoots. I realized that not valuing my time and expertise was undermining my own self-worth. It took time, but I’ve learned that taking myself seriously as a creative professional and charging appropriately is not only fair but also necessary for sustaining my passion and providing the quality service my clients deserve. This lesson has empowered me to recognize the value in my work and has allowed me to thrive as a photographer.

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

One overarching goal has been the driving force behind my creative journey: to continuously prove to myself that I can make a living off of my dreams! This aspiration fuels my every endeavor and serves as a compass guiding my path. It’s not just about financial success; it’s about the freedom to travel the world and explore its many wonders. I relish the opportunity to broaden my horizons, not just in terms of places but also by honing new skills within myself that I have yet to discover.

Moreover, my goal extends beyond personal fulfillment. I aspire to impact others by showing them that they too can live their dream life through the power of their skills and passions. I refuse to be confined to one specific line of work, as I yearn to explore the vast array of creative options the world offers. It’s a thrilling prospect to see just how many avenues there are for me to express my creativity and contribute my expertise to any project I encounter. This journey is a testament to the belief that dreams are attainable, and I’m committed to proving that to myself and inspiring others along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: emmawattsphoto.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmawhatts/?hl=en
• Other: Honey Punch Mag – honeypunchmag.com @honeypunchmag Future Freaks Co @futurefreaksco

Image Credits
all images taken by Emma Watts (BW Group photo of Pussy Riot – Winners of the Woody Guthrie Prize at Cain’s Ballroom )