Inspiring Conversations with Suzanne Pedersen of Suzanne Lopez Photography

Today we’d like to introduce you to Suzanne Pedersen.

Suzanne, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was that “mom with a camera” that couldn’t get enough of photographing my daughters. I started really thinking creatively about what I was doing with my captures when my youngest was 2. I still took a TON of what I would consider snap shots, but I did start to recognize how a captured image could touch my heartstrings in such a strong way. I kept shooting and striving to get a stronger and stronger feeling from my photos. I’m not sure I even could have told you back then that that was what I was seeking, but in hind sight, that’s exactly what it was. Shortly after that, local friends would ask for family photos, or photos of their littles, and although I had doubts about my abilities to do this for others, I started taking on sessions. I am so grateful that I did. It’s been a long journey, some 24+ years, but I am so glad that I was able to find something that really gave me oxygen as a personal passion. I adore working with people!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I don’t believe anything in life is text book smooth. I don’t begrudge that process, as through our struggles, and also through our successes, is where we grow. When we break away from our own box, we can learn and discover, and hopefully find new places to seek meaning and fulfillment. I feel that keeps us sharp and helps us not stagnate. My journey has times been filled with great pride, but also had times where I felt defeated, and less than, as a photographer. I have never have a client project that on me mind you, they have always been gracious and nothing but supportive, it is only with self assessment, I felt that I fell short.

As you know, we’re big fans of Suzanne Lopez Photography. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I am an Arvada based photographer who focuses on portraiture (milestones, casual, fine art) as well as headshots/small business branding. My main work recently has been Seniors/graduates or individuals, as well as couples or marketing work. I shoot mainly on location and have also recently added studio portraiture to my services. My style is a mix of candid and casually/purposefully posed, and I aim to allow time and space for my sitters to relax and feel comfortable during our time together. I thoroughly enjoy getting to meet new people that want to work with me, and I hope that comes across to make our time together comfortable and enjoyable! I am a casual person, which is why I chose the image of myself that I did, versus a more crafted portrait. This is me.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
I can’t begin to thank all the people who have supported me along the way! Starting with my parents who always were my biggest cheerleaders, to my family who always put up with my shenanigans of wanting to incessantly photograph them, my clients who have always been so supportive and trusting in my abilities and last but not least, my husband who is my stable, safe, supportive and collaborative partner in my life and business!!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.suzannelopezphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.roll.backup/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzanne.lopez.5688
• Other: https://www.suzannepedersen.com/

Image Credits
Photo of me by Chris Pedersen