Check Out Amy Johnson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Johnson.

Hi Amy, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always been drawn to creativity, exploring various crafts and projects as outlets for self-expression and stress relief. Over time, I’ve struggled with maintaining focus and have tried numerous ways to express myself. Throughout it all, photography has been a constant. Initially, it was just snapping countless photos with my phone or a basic camera. I was known for returning from trips with hundreds or even thousands of images, much like my mom, who was my hero and best friend. She shared my passion for capturing moments, often having more photos on her phone than I did.

When she died, I made a decision to honor her memory by investing in a quality camera and learning how to use it properly. However, I found myself unable to take that step – I was stuck. It was my husband who, understanding my struggle, surprised me with the camera as a birthday gift—an incredibly thoughtful gesture that remains one of the most cherished gifts I’ve ever received. I quickly immersed myself in learning the art of photography, and since then, there’s been no turning back.
Photography has become the perfect fusion of my passions for animals, nature, and family. Through my lens, I capture the beauty of wildlife and their natural habitats, I love every moment where I am allowed to sit in peace with an animal or enjoy the solace in the sunrise. Each photograph preserves moments that connect me intimately with the natural world. Moreover, photography has become a cherished way to document my family. Whether it’s capturing candid moments or preserving milestones in our lives, each photo documents a unique chapter. This passion has not only deepened my appreciation for the world around me but has also taught me patience, assisted in overcoming my perfectionism, and helped me confront self-doubt—though I acknowledge there’s still much progress to be made.

As I’ve broadened my knowledge and embraced new subjects in photography, I’ve been fortunate to capture the journeys of other families. Documenting the significant and intimate moments in others’ lives is deeply rewarding. It allows me to capture the essence of joy, love, and emotion that define these special occasions. Whether it’s a couple’s wedding day, a family’s portrait session, or the excitement of a graduating senior embarking on a new chapter, each opportunity to photograph these milestones brings me closer to these families. Through my lens, I have the privilege of preserving memories that will be cherished for a lifetime and I take that responsibility very seriously.

Some of the most rewarding moments in my photography journey have come from the reactions of others to my work. There have been occasions where I’ve hesitated about sharing my photos on Facebook, fearing I was overwhelming my friends, only to receive heartfelt thanks from someone who appreciated seeing something they wouldn’t have otherwise experienced. Similarly, forming a bond with a high school senior that has allowed them to open up and trust me with their time, creating meaningful portraits that capture their essence. These moments of connection and appreciation reaffirm my passion for photography and the power it holds to connect people.

My passion for photography has evolved from a hobby into a growing business. I’ve expanded my reach by selling my work at farmer’s markets, vendor fairs, and in gift shops, while also booking sessions with clients. Recently, I’ve become involved with the volunteer photography committee at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, contributing my photos to their marketing efforts. Despite the ongoing learning curve, one thing remains clear: my camera is not just a tool but a source of grounding and solace. It’s through photography that I find both my passion and my peace of mind.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Struggling with self-doubt and imposter syndrome has been a significant challenge in my photography journey. It’s hard to look at the work of others and not compare my skill to theirs; I am often left feeling inferior. Despite external validation and successes, there are moments when I question my abilities and feel like I don’t belong in the spaces I’ve worked so hard to enter. At times, don’t know why people trust me with the big moments they do and I fear I won’t be able to deliver on my promise to them. But, surrounding myself with supportive peers and mentors who validate my skills and experiences along with offering constructive criticisms has been critical in combating these doubts.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer specializing in landscapes, wildlife, and zoo animals, but I’ve recently ventured into capturing human subjects as well. My camera is my constant companion; I spend every spare moment shooting whatever presents itself. Rarely do I step out without my camera in hand. Animals remain my true passion and always draw me in, but I’ve actively pursued diversifying my subjects to challenge myself creatively. As a natural light photographer, I prefer working outdoors, where I can harness the ever-changing beauty of natural settings.

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Throughout my life, I’ve been driven and creatively inclined, yet introspective/introverted by nature. I’ve always gravitated towards creative pursuits that allow me to express myself independently, without the need for extensive interaction with others. Animals have fascinated me for as long as I can recall, but my interest in photography emerged during my adult years.

Contact Info:

• Website: co-mountain-girl-picfair.com
• Instagram: @comountaingirlphotography
• Facebook: @ColoradoMountainGirlPhotography
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/COMGPhotography?ref=shop-header-name&listing_id=1329471425&from_page=listing

Image Credits
All images copyright Colorado Mountain Girl Photography