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

Lindsey, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

In the very beginning of my photography journey, I had the opportunity to work with a local boutique. I call it work, but it was one of the work for exposure kind of deals we all succumb to in the beginning. But this boutique was size inclusive and they were really one of the first boutiques that would feature plus size girls. I absolutely loved that about them and really adored their mission.

At the time, most of the models for this boutique were regular women. They were not hired by and agency, just women who expressed interested an loved the boutique. There was one event that one of the models said to me, she loved working with me, because she always looked beautiful. As much as I would love to take credit for her beauty, that is not in my skill set. But I knew where she going with that sentiment and her statement changed my perspective on photography forever.

She as women, no matter our size, we can often look at an image and find every one of our flaws. The rolls, the wrinkles, the hair that not laying right. Ask any women who takes selfies, how many she takes before she gets the image she wants to share. I can guarantee you its more than 1. It was that woman’s statement that made me understand the power that I can have behind the camera. Its so much more than just snapping a photo, its the power to transform the way she sees herself.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have been interested in photography for as long as I can remember. Somewhere there is an old photograph of me when I was about 5 holding a camera. I took photography classes in high school and college and somehow just kept finding my way back. I worked in the sports photography world before starting my own portrait business.

When I first started taking portraits, I worked with everyone. I photographed babies, weddings and pretty much anyone who would hire me. As I started to work more, I found what I really enjoyed and what I was really good at; and that was working with women. I decided to specialize in high school seniors because its such a transformative time. Its a session that is all about them, and what makes them special. Its not a cookie cutter studio session with their cap an gown. Its a chance to make them appreciate their hard work and celebrate their individuality.

From the beginning I knew I wanted to offer more than just images online. I get so much joy looking through boxes of old photographs. Scrolling through the camera roll on my phone just doesn’t have the same effect. And while not every teenager can appreciate tangible products, their parents do! And there is just something magical about holding that portrait in your hands, whether its an album or a metal print on their wall. Every time they stop and take a breath because its just that special. I truly believe offering printed products is the best service I can offer my clients.

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

My clients reactions are absolutely the most rewarding part of my job. I feel like specializing in seniors is a bit unique because I have 2 specific clients for 1 service, the senior and their parents. And I am sure it doesn’t surprise anyone that they have different taste and goals for their portraits. But when they see their images for the first time, and mom get teary eyed and the daughter loves how she looks, that is the best feeling. I know that I have given them a time capsule into this moment they share. It will bring peace to her parents as she prepares to leave for college and it gives the girl a boost of confidence to walk a little taller as she enters adulthood. I mean, what could be more fulfilling than that?

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Professional Photographers of America is definitely the best resource for photographers pursuing their photography career. I think in the beginning I looked at that organization as a bit too “traditional” and not in line with modern photographers. I was completely wrong about that. Not only do they have a plethora of online education, but they have an enormous convention every year, local guilds (Dallas and Fort Worth PPA) where you can connect with photographers local to you. They offer classes at a very affordable price and they really give back so much to the photography community. There is value in having experience educators, and they focus a lot on the professional side. It for sure has been the best resource for my growth not only as a photographer but a business owner.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lindseyrabon.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/lindseyrabon
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lindseyrabonphotography