We recently connected with Tawnee Vallar and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tawnee, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

How I first learned my craft was from my Dad. He was also a photographer. He had a Canon AE-1, a film back from the 70s, many point and shoots, and even disposable cameras in his camera cabinet that I could use at anytime. I learned little tips and tricks from him growing up and he even had a ton of books about photography I could always flip through.

When I got into high school I gained a even stronger passion for photography and learned more from renting books from the library then eventually joined yearbook where I was able to learn from my peers. We even got critiqued once a week on our photos from the whole yearbook team on what photos were strongest and how we could improve.

If I knew what I knew now about photography, I would probably wanted a lesson that every photographer is on their own timeline. That the path will have ups and downs, but as long as your consistent, patient, and you keep your eyes on your own work it would only be up from there.

The skills that are most essential is just putting yourself out there and being uncomfortable. Most of the opportunities that have came my way is because I took a risk by doing something I have never done before. Thusfore, growing into a even more skilled photography and consistently topping myself.

The obstacles that stood in my way of learning more, is probably myself. As a creative I often get hit with “imposter syndrome” that I am not good enough or as amazing as this person over there. When ever I have those thoughts slip in, I physically shake my head, take a breathe, send positive energy there way, then remind myself that I am on my own path and I can get where I want to be is if I just focus on the things I need to do. Just need to keep learning, keep growing, and keep challenge oneself.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Tawnee Keala, and I am a fashion/editorial photographer from Southern California. I have been a photographer. my whole life, but really did not start thinking of it as a career till covid. I provide portrait photography and brand photography for fashion and streetwear brands. What sets me apart from others is my artistic eye, and the ability to see my client or brand in a different perspective that is innovated and beautiful. I am most proud of the positive environment I create for my clients which has them coming back time and time again.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation has been by two ways. By networking and putting myself out there. I hate to say it but I have gotten majority of clients from word of mouth. That when I provided a positive experience with one client I get referred to another client. Or have repeating clients. With that said, it’s important to stay patient. There are times when I am hungry to get the next gig, and fast, but what I have learned is that it’s a waiting game. I feel that the faster you climb, the faster you can fall. But if you are consistent and steady you will get where you want to be with less risk of failure.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a artist is seeing my clients happy with my work. It is my greatest pleasure to conceptualize work, watch it come alive, then watch it have life after it’s said and done. I just want to keep producing work that brings joy to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tawneekealaphotography.com
• Instagram: tawnee.keala