Erin Deardorff on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Erin Deardorff. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Erin, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
Recently a very good friend of mine asked me to help her with a few of her wellness retreats. I was a bit freaked at first as I, like many, have never seen myself as the epitome of wellness. I have not always balanced my life, and often just roll with things. But then I realized that, my being like others on the journey makes me a great candidate, and that stepping out of my comfort zone is one of the areas that I continue to grow in. So I am signed up to teach some basic mobile photography tips. I will be sharing my knowledge of how to setup a good shot and leverage a camera that almost everyone has these days, but rarely do they use it to its fullest extent or realize how much the focus and experience of photography can provide an escape and opportunity to relax in a busy life. I am super excited to see what I do with this opportunity!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a photographer who discovered my passion through my adventures and desire to do something good for the world. While doing a charity bike ride, I established a blog to share with people the stories about training and the event itself. Through this, I discovered how much I love to share my adventures. I have taken a wide variety of pictures from my feet, skis, boat, board or bike. When asked, I can never pick a favorite photo, or a favorite destination. I hope you can, or that you find them all amazing. A portion of all sales goes to charity. Enjoy!

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I was lucky and got to study abroad twice, and it really taught me a lot about the world and even home. Learning first hand about a new culture that has its own history truly teaches you how people form a lot of their perspectives through their experiences and what they are exposed to. I believe that every person has something to offer and your interactions can shape each other’s perspectives. It’s just like a photograph… you can look at the same object through a different angle or lens and see something truly unique.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t let the fear of failure or others opinions stop you from pursuing your dreams and what makes you smile. You will never satisfy everyone, but are you satisfied with your choices… That is what really matters. Live your life and make your choices around that.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Making a difference. There are many ways to do it, and I want a legacy that says she made a difference. That is why in addition to capturing beautiful images throughout my life I give back to charities as part of what I do. I find that to be a rewarding part of what my photography journey has offered.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace in the outdoors or traveling, soaking in the vistas, trying new foods and being active. That is second nature for me as I enjoy living life to its fullest by learning and seeing new things.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.savingmemoriesbymakingmemories.com
• Instagram: @savingmemoriesbymakingmemories
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savingmemories