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

Alright, Kristina thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I started doing photography in 2020 during covid as a creative outlet to help deal with the stress of the pandemic. I purchased my first camera (a Nikon) and started taking it out to take pictures of wildflowers in the area. Soon I learned how to shoot self-portraits and started including myself in the photos. Because indoor space was limited during the pandemic it felt great to be able to get out in the fresh air and practice my new hobby. I found being behind the camera to be very relaxing and help center me in the moment. Around this time, I also started experimenting with how to edit photos in Adobe Lightroom. In the beginning it was a lot of trial-and-error learning to shoot photography and edit but a fun challenge, nevertheless. I mostly learned by watching YouTube videos on the basics and taking my camera out to practice. Every time I take my camera out it is an opportunity to learn more.

Kristina, 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?

I am an outdoor and nature photographer who enjoys showcasing the beauty of nature. I also enjoy taking self-portraits of myself outdoor locations. I focus on photography geared towards the places I often visit in northern California. My goal is to showcase the beauty of northern California and the many diverse places there are to get outside. I started photography in 2020 as a way to deal with the stress of the pandemic since indoor spaces at that time were so limited. Through my photography I want followers to feel like they are transported to that location and can enjoy it’s beauty.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, one of the most rewarding things about doing photography is being able to connect with the natural world. Photography gives me the opportunity to disconnect from my phone or computer. When I am out taking photos, I’m not focused being connected online. Since so much of what we do now days involves phones or computers, it’s nice to have that disconnect. I find photography to be an exercise in mindfulness since it takes time to frame the shot, adjust the camera settings etc.

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

My goal is to continue learning photography and grow as an artist in my skill. It is also important for me to continue forming relationships with the communities where I take photos. This includes the greater Sacramento and Lake Tahoe areas. The community aspect is very important because there are other small businesses that can be highlighted and mentioned in these beautiful areas.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calilovesouth/

Image Credits

My own photography/images