We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sophia Olsen a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sophia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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 think one of the most significant learning moments for me was during my junior year of high school when my teacher moved on to larger-scale projects. The project required us to create a project for ourselves and we had the whole semester to develop our idea and create work for it. The project forced us to think critically about our work and moved us into a more artistic headspace. It pushed me significantly as an artist because it was the first time I had considered a long-term project and what type of story I wanted to share. Up until that point, my work was simplistic, fitting into the parameters of projects designed to introduce me to the basics of a camera and the darkroom, so this task was a daunting one. I had the guidance of my teachers who created an environment where we could without judgment create and explore our artistic visions. When I look back at that moment I see it as the first time I thought like an artist and created a body of work that spoke for itself.

Sophia, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a Houston-based freelance photographer who got her start in 2015 when I picked up her first film camera in high school. While I loved photography and was so invested in my classes, I had never really given thought to the idea that I could turn it into a career. It wasn’t until my first day of college orientation that I decided to pursue a BFA. The early stages of my artistic journey are characterized by bold sweeping landscapes that have evolved into more stylized portraits. My current body of work reflects a blended love for both genres that is defined by dreamy atmospheres and soft colors. Over the years, I have been featured in several galleries including The Houston Center of Photography and Da Vinci’s Art Gallery. Now I love connecting with clients and creating memorable experiences.

A portrait session can have a profound impact on the self-esteem and self-image of the subjects. This boost in self-confidence can extend beyond the photoshoot, positively impacting various aspects of their lives, that’s why for my clients, I LOVE going all out. I understand that for a lot of people, the thought of a portrait session can be quite daunting so I like to make sure that the process is simple yet exciting. Before the shoot, I always provide a location and outfit recommendations. If they need help styling, I’m available to help! Their session is designed to make them feel comfortable, not stressed. I love to showcase my artistic style in my work while collaborating closely with clients to ensure their unique personalities radiate in the photographs.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

In my opinion, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a photographer is the ability to connect with individuals. Speaking from my own experience, sessions provide an opportunity for individuals to come together, collaborate, and bond. Whether it’s capturing the love between couples, the dynamics of a family, or the connections between friends, portrait photography fosters a sense of togetherness and strengthens relationships. It allows people to celebrate their connections and create shared memories.

I also believe that as a photographer you have the opportunity to capture and celebrate the essence of your subjects. Photographers can convey a person’s unique traits, emotions, and character in a single image and have the power to tell stories and provide glimpses into the inner worlds of the subjects. A portrait session can have a profound impact on the self-esteem and self-image of the subjects. This boost in self-confidence can extend beyond the photo shoot, and knowing that I have the ability to impact people in such a profound way is something I have always cherished.

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

Speaking from personal experience I have found it very easy to fall prey to the idea that your journey as an artist is a linear one rather than a cyclical journey that is constantly changing and growing with you. I believe that as an artist your style of work will evolve and you have to give yourself the freedom and grace to grow in order to create an authentic body of work that audiences will connect with. I have had to learn that limiting what you create will drive you into a slump and is the quickest way to burn out artistically.

For the longest time, I had been photographing mostly landscapes believing it to be my niche. But as I developed my style and tried to create my brand I found that I was moving away from what I was so used to. Ignoring that though I continued to create work that fit into the mold I had created for myself. My work started to become formulaic and foreign to me. So I broke down my process, allowing myself to experiment with style, lighting, and color until I had created a body of work that I was proud of. I think giving yourself the room to move beyond the limitations you set for yourself is so important as an artist. Audiences will not connect or want to interact with work that feels forced and as an artist, you owe it to yourself to create work you are passionate about.

The moral of the story is if you are feeling stuck, don’t wallow in that feeling. Creative journeys are not linear but rather cyclical, as artists continuously loop through these stages, building upon previous experiences and discoveries. Remember, becoming a successful photographer is a journey that requires dedication, perseverance, and passion. Embrace the process, stay true to your artistic vision, and continue to refine your skills as you carve your path in the world of photography. Creative journeys are transformative experiences. Artists evolve and grow, both artistically and personally, as they navigate the twists and turns of their creative process. They adapt to changing perspectives, embrace new challenges, and refine their artistic voice. This evolution is driven by a deep desire for self-expression, the pursuit of excellence, and a genuine passion for their craft.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sophotozz.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophotozz/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-olsen-b0310223b/