We recently connected with Markee Canada and have shared our conversation below.

Markee, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Throughout my life, photography has been a continuous journey for me, though one I approached more casually until recently. From my early days in elementary school to my service in the military, I utilized both disposable and digital cameras purely for enjoyment and capturing memories, not yet understanding my love for the art yet. However, in 2019, I decided to take a more serious approach to photography. I sought the guidance of a local mentor who introduced me to the fundamental concepts and essential techniques in the field.

Reflecting on my progression, I realize that immersing myself in photography from the beginning would have significantly accelerated my learning experience. I now understand that mastering the exposure triangle and skillfully manipulating light are crucial to developing a creative style. The primary challenge I have encountered in this journey has been fear—fear of pushing my boundaries and uncertainty about my place within the industry.

Markee, 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?

As a passionate Creator Director and photographer based in Birmingham, Alabama, I have devoted the past several years to honing my craft and delivering exceptional visual storytelling. My mission is to help clients preserve beautiful moments that might otherwise fade from memory, capturing the essence of life as it unfolds.

I recognize that photography transcends mere documentation; it is a powerful medium for holding onto the present. Through my lens, I strive to capture experiences and emotions that are often overlooked, ensuring that each photograph tells a unique story. Whether it’s a fleeting smile, a tender embrace, or the intricate details of a significant event, my objective is to freeze time in a way that resonates with the viewer.

In addition to personal photography, I address professional challenges by bringing my clients’ visions to life—be it through compelling headshots that convey professionalism and personality or striking real estate photography that highlights the unique features of a property. My understanding of the intricacies involved in both personal and commercial photography enables me to provide tailored solutions that meet diverse needs and objectives.

I take immense pride in my growth as a photographer over the years. Each passing year brings new experiences and opportunities, inspiring me to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. This journey of continuous improvement excites me and fuels my ambition for the future.

I want potential clients to know that integrity and authenticity lie at the heart of my business. I am genuinely committed to understanding and fulfilling each client’s requirements, ensuring a collaborative experience that prioritizes their needs. Together, we can create visually captivating content that not only meets but exceeds expectations.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist lies in the transformative journey from concept to creation. Witnessing the evolution of a mere thought into a fully realized idea, and in the end into a tangible plan, embodies the essence of artistic endeavor. This process captivates and engages an audience, offering them a unique experience.

When clients react to the artwork, their enjoyment serves as a testament to the time and effort invested by the photographer. The ability of the audience to relate to the work, derive personal interpretations, and connect emotionally creates a shared dialogue between the creator and the consumer. This exchange not only validates my vision but also highlights the nature of photography.

Receiving positive feedback on the work I put out amplifies the sensation, reinforcing the significance of the artistic process. It’s moments like this that evokes appreciation and sparks conversation—that the true impact of being an artist is realized. To be inspired or to be an inspiration to others through creative expression is a profound reward.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Throughout my journey as a photographer, one of the most significant lessons I’ve had to unlearn is the pursuit of the so-called “perfect photo.” Initially, I found myself meticulously attempting to replicate the exact lighting and settings from inspirational videos and tutorials. I believed that sticking to these predefined standards was the key to capturing stunning visuals. However, I have come to realize that understanding my own creative vision is not only sufficient but also essential for authentic expression.

This revelation became evident during a recent collaborative shoot with a designer for her Spring clothing line. In preparation, I invested considerable time watching videos and studying similar sessions to ensure everything would unfold flawlessly. As we began the session, the early moments were promising; however, as the day progressed and the natural light changed, I found that my initial creative vision was not turning out as I had hoped.

In that moment of frustration, I recognized the need to discard the rules and settings. Instead, I chose to embrace the moment and flexibility. By experimenting with my strobes and allowing the sun to contribute its unique characteristics, I unlocked a new dimension of creativity. Interacting more freely with the models created an environment where ideas flowed naturally, enabling a collaborative spirit that refreshed the rest of the session.

Ultimately, by letting go of my fixation on perfection, I discovered the freedom to explore and innovate. This experience transformed what might have been a standard photoshoot into one of my favorite sessions, marked by genuine creativity and enjoyment. It reinforced the invaluable lesson that true artistry emerges not from conformity to idealized standards, but from embracing one’s unique perspective and allowing it to shine through.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Keyboproduction.com
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Image Credits

Tracie Canada
Jackson Canada
Aleuxus Wilcoxon
Angel Beck