Meet Grace McHugh of Parker, CO

Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace McHugh.

Hi Grace, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am not trained in photography and developed the skills I have through practice and in the job training. I am actually an engineer (Chemical Engineer from Florida State University) and only became interested in photography very recently. I was (and still am) in love with my wedding photos and thought to myself it might be an interesting hobby to pursue. I had a DSLR a few years back for taking photos of nature and hiking, but I never really utilized it. Experiencing the joy and of seeing my wedding photos, I wanted to provide that same feelings for others.

My photography journey started with taking photos of couples and second shooting for weddings. My first gig was an engagement in Steamboat Springs that was published in Rocky Mountain Bride magazine. I realized that maybe I was actually really good at this!

It wasn’t until I became friends with a DJ that I gave live music a shot (pun intended). He (DJ Fuse) said to come to one of his gigs to give it a shot, and I fell in love with the environment, danced a lot to the music, and the positive energy. I like to say I pursued live music so we could save some money on buying tickets.

How I got to where I am today is all because of some wonderful humans that found my work and gave me an opportunity to work with them. The first gallery I produced for DJ Fuse allowed me to shoot for Two Friends and make connections with other DJs in the Denver area. The group from Espresso Sessions° really set this side-gig ahead of where it should be by advocating and promoting me when I’m not in the room.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Yes and no? I feel like it was only chance that I pursued something so completely different than what I was doing day in and day out. I was not friends with other photographers in the business, and luck completely helped me find my way into a niche and community I love. Surely talent is always required to be successful, but luck has a great deal to do with it.
It was not all instant connections and bookings, and there was a bit of lull when I couldn’t catch my break. However, I had constant support from my husband and my friends to help build my confidence (and still do!).

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work is photographing DJ’s in the Denver area! Before you ask, no I didn’t purposely pick DJs, it chose me. I would love to build a repertoire of other live artists, but I’ve found myself lodged into a wonderful community of DJs.

I have been pondering what sets me apart from others because there are SO many wonderful and great photographers in the same field of work. I think what stands out with my work is that I chase capturing emotions by getting to know my clients personally. Clients aren’t just another line item but rather an opportunity to connect with another human. I become that clients support team that wants to know their goals, aspirations, and what they want your brand to capture/represent. The reason I likely didn’t fit well with weddings is that I care about ongoing and sustained relationships. I don’t want to see our relationship stop after a gallery is delivered but I want to hear about your successes and I want to help you in your journey.

What am I most proud of? Helping folks trying to start their business/brand move through their journey. I have met some really incredible people and I am so honored they trust me enough to capture their moments. I take it very seriously that many of the clients I work with are trying to get their names off the ground and they are spending their very hard earned money on the product I provide for them. I never want to disappoint or give product that does not help move their business forward.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
See my previous response. My mother always raised me and my brothers to know that hard work helps to get you skills, but achieving your goals doesn’t come just from hard work and luck is to thank.

I’ll be the first to say I’m nothing special and am your average 33 year old living in Denver. I didn’t get an education on how to shoot photos or how to have a creative eye, but I am meticulous when it comes to details and learning (learning is my favorite thing). Lots of failing, listening to other experts, and growing through practice has allowed me to build the portfolio I have.

Another good example of luck, or maybe you believe in fate/setting intentions was DJ Treble Tina finding my work and hiring to shoot at Mission Ballroom. Something I would not have predicted being an accomplishment of my first year in live music photographing!

It’s both luck and perseverance!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gracemchughphotography.com
• Instagram: @mchughmusicphoto

Image Credits
Photo 1: DJ Aspens + Chasing Rabbits
Photo 2: DJ Fuse
Photo 3: Epsilon Unlimited Sunglasses
Photo 4: Espresso Sessions
Photo 5: DJ Gigi
Photo 6: DJ Natti
Photo 7: DJ OKIE
Photo 8: DJ Treble Tina