Conversations with Mish Howard

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mish Howard.

Hi Mish, 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 backstories with our readers.
Well, I think I can say with honesty I was born a creative person. If you asked 7-year-old me, what she was going to be when she grew up, she would say just that! I dreamed of being an artist, a writer… anything that equaled art! But we didn’t grow up being supported in those career choices, especially folks in my age group. But I left my office job to pursue photography full-time in 2019 right before covid started hitting.

I was bouncing from job to job completely miserable. I finally went balls to the wall and invested everything I had and everything I made the following year right back into my craft. I think we all can agree when you go full-time creative, you’re met with a lot of ” but what’s your real job?” “what’s your backup plan?”. But this is very much a job. One that I love and have poured my heart (and savings lol) into! From begging people to shoot with me, and way underpriced sessions, to being paid for MY style. My vision! it’s been a miraculous adventure!

There have been many closed doors along the way but even more, opened ones. I’ve learned to create at the moment, with whatever I have, wherever you are and whoever you’re with! Allowing myself to be vulnerable with each client and opportunity has also carved out my only little niche in this heavily saturated industry. I have had to put myself out there and it’s given me the chance to see my communities with all new eyes! NEVER stop persevering!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Far from it! Photography has quickly become one of the most saturated industries, especially here in Colorado. And even with that, the community is relatively small. so, in the beginning, you’re either faced with a bunch of cliquey behavior or drowning in a sea of “affordable” photographers. You struggle with your editing style, workflow, and further education. you have to be vulnerable and submerge yourself in the community!

There are so many emotions that go into being a full-time creative and showing that in your art can be very sensitive. and that is okay! Also, who the hell invented taxes, and why have they not been arrested? Because when you want to be a paid creative you have to pay the piper. and that just stinks am I right?!

Some personal struggles and obstacles for me are learning sometimes the people you look up to, aren’t the heroes you thought they were, and navigating how to be okay with that! Along with being validated in me First before I let outside opinions affect how I feel about my work! I’m Positive as I evolve ill face even more obstacles, and I’m excited to learn from each of them!

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am A couple’s boudoir and portrait photographer! I also document weddings and events of all types full-time! (Fashion shows, community events, corporate projects, family gatherings) I specialize in making it creative! I add inspiration from abstract artists, culture, true love, and vulnerability in each set. I use my session times to create a safe space for my clients, no matter what the shoot is.

I’m known for capturing connections and freezing moments in a way you can almost hear the images. But I’m not all moody! I add an editorial edge to just about everything I shoot! I think I’m most proud of my couple’s boudoir work! It is such a beautiful experience and I love creating that space for all couples. I also do a passion project every year to showcase something special in my life or something that has inspired me.

I hope to soon be realizing a project I’ve been working on this year titled, “THE MEDIUM FILES” combining art mediums and photography! There are a few career highlights that make my younger self faint! like traveling for weddings and assisting & co-shooting on a shoot with Ciara Wilson! and I can Only Progress! But I think the most special thing about shooting with me is you will feel safe and heard! the experience should be us creating TOGETHER and I hope I can continue to spread that love around!

What matters most to you? Why?
My family and friends. Easy answer there! I would have none of this without my closest circle! My husband and my children and my foundation, are my absolute reasons! My friends spread my business like wildfire and keep me booked and busy! My mom waters me with love and encouragement and has given me the strong roots to grow!
I wish I could elaborate more but it’s just as simple as that!

Pricing:

• couples boudoir $375 -$500
• weddings- $375 /hr
• events- $175 /hr
• portraits- #350 – $450

Contact Info:

• Website: Mimariecreativeco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimarie_creative/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mishclicks